Introduction
“My Maria” by Brooks & Dunn is a hit country song released in 1996 as part of their album Borderline. The song was originally written and recorded by B.W. Stevenson in 1973, where it reached success on the pop charts. Brooks & Dunn, the iconic country duo consisting of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, decided to cover the song and infuse it with their distinctive style, blending traditional country sounds with modern influences.
The Brooks & Dunn version became a significant success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This version resonated with both country fans and a broader audience, marking it as one of the duo’s most popular hits. The song showcases Ronnie Dunn’s powerful and soulful vocal delivery, which brings a new dynamic to the song while still respecting the original composition.
The music video for “My Maria,” directed by Steven Goldmann, further propelled the song’s popularity, showcasing the duo’s on-stage charisma and connection with their audience. It became a staple in their live performances, often eliciting enthusiastic responses from the crowd. The song also won Brooks & Dunn the award for Country Music Association’s Vocal Duo of the Year in 1996, further solidifying their place in country music history.
Brooks & Dunn’s version of “My Maria” remains a beloved song in country music, bridging the gap between classic and contemporary sounds. It exemplifies their ability to take an existing song and make it their own, adding to their legacy as one of the most successful country duos.