Not since Naomi Judd announced she had to retire from performing has news of a duo splitting up rocked the country music world but Brooks & Dunn has set tongues wagging and internet boards on fire with speculation and concern. After 20 years as a duo the guys have decided to go their separate ways after the 2010 tour dates.

Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn didn’t set out to be a duo, they each wanted a solo career and tried for years to get the break to make it happen. Not until they were introduced and tried recording together did the big break come about for them. Until the last few years, you could count on them to win any duo award they were nominated for in the country music shows. Kix and Ronnie still generate number one singles on each CD they release so one has to wonder why are they splitting. Being one of the few true duos in the industry is going to leave a hole that isn’t going to be easily filled by anyone.

There is speculation that Ronnie is going after a solo career, Kix may follow too. According to the guys there is no big fight or anything that is causing them to split. They just feel like it is time to move on. Remember that these guys aren’t the spring chickens they were 20 years ago, Ronnie is actually 56 years old, touring like they do has to be hard on them both.

Don’t fret fans, they will tour in 2010 and will release a Greatest Hits CD in September of this year. If previous tours are any indication, Kix and Ronnie are going to give us all a show to remember and create a legend that it will be hard for any act to top in the future.