Country fans disappointed as ’90s band joins Kid Rock’s music festival
Country music enthusiasts expressed dismay when a well-known ’90s band decided to participate in Kid Rock’s controversial MAGA music festival in Ocala, Florida. Brooks & Dunn, a classic duo from the ’90s era, confirmed their performance at the Florida Horse Park as part of Kid Rock’s Rock the Country festival lineup alongside other prominent artists like Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, and Jon Pardi. The announcement came as a disappointment to fans who were eager to see their favorite artists on stage.
Fans took to a Reddit thread to share their reactions, expressing disappointment in Brooks & Dunn and other musicians like Diamond Rio for signing up for the event. Comments from passionate fans revealed a sense of nostalgia and disillusionment with the recent developments in the country music scene. Many fans mentioned adjusting their playlists to exclude the bands they admired, showcasing their loyalty and emotional connection to the music of the ’90s.
Brooks & Dunn, consisting of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, gained fame in the ’90s and have since released multiple successful albums, including “Brand New Man,” “Hard Workin’ Man,” and “Reboot.” With a string of 20 #1 hits on the Billboard country charts, the duo has solidified their status as country music legends. Songs like “Neon Moon,” “Brand New Man,” and “Ain’t Nothing ‘Bout You” are just a few examples of their chart-topping tracks that have resonated with fans over the years.
Despite the disappointment surrounding their participation in Kid Rock’s festival, Brooks & Dunn are set to embark on a busy 2026 schedule. The duo is slated to headline the C2C: Country to Country festival in London as part of their Neon Moon tour, which includes performances in North America and Europe. Rumors of a potential One Last Ride tour with George Strait have also sparked excitement among fans eager to catch the iconic duo in action.
In conclusion, the decision of Brooks & Dunn to join Kid Rock’s music festival has left many country music lovers feeling disheartened, reflecting a mix of nostalgia, disappointment, and loyalty among fans of the classic ’90s band. Despite the setback, Brooks & Dunn continue to captivate audiences with their timeless music and remain a fixture in the country music scene, paving the way for future generations of artists and fans to cherish their iconic sound.