With the announcement of the seven show Country Mega Ticket today at Cruzan Amphitheatre, this year promises more country music locally than ever!

Following some incredibly satisfying entertainment at the South Florida Fair — I saw Luke Bryan, David Nail and Chris Young — we have a brand new festival at Cruzan and the South Florida Fairgrounds.

The first- even WIRK Rib Round-Up kicks off the season on March 6, promising sweet and spicy ribs and extra-tasty entertainment.

Billy Currington is the biggest name on the bill. His second Billboard No. 1, People Are Crazy, topped the chart last summer. Also performing: Vero Beach’s Jake Owen, Darryl Worley, American Idol’s Josh Gracin and newcomer Josh Thompson.
Read the full story

Brooks & Dunn call it quits as duo

Shocking country music news today.

You may already know, but Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn are parting ways next year after a final tour.

The dynamic duo have logged almost 20 years as an act, earned 20 No. 1 hits, even wrote a book.

Could the time be right to pass the torch to a new duo. Maybe Sugarland? Or Montgomery Gentry?

I can’t feel anything but sad.
Read the full story

Janis Fontaine: Brooks & Dunn done? Say it ain’t so!

Brooks & Dunn are done.

Best-selling country duo Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn posted a message on their Web site Monday saying they agreed to “call it a day” after 20 years of making music together.

“This ride has been everything and more than we could ever have dreamed … We owe it all to you, the fans,” they said in the message. “If you hear rumors, don’t believe them, it’s just time.”

Brooks & Dunn will release a greatest-hits album on Sept. 8 and tour one last time in 2010.

The duo’s many hits include “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” “My Maria,” “Red Dirt Road” and “Cowgirls Don’t Cry” with Reba McEntire.
Read the full story