Kix Brooks to Leave ‘American Country Countdown’ and Shift His Focus Back to Brooks & Dunn

Many fans know Kix Brooks as one-half of Brooks & Dunn. Those who listen to the radio also know him as the host of American Country Countdown. Since January 2006, Brooks has given listeners a weekend soundtrack, taking them through the biggest hits of the week. Additionally, he conducted on-air interviews with genre veterans and rising stars alike. Now, after nearly two decades, Brooks is stepping down.

During his time on American Country Countdown, Brooks was honored as CMA National Broadcast Personality of the Year three times. He received the honor in 2009, 2011, and 2013. This made him the first person to win CMA Awards in both the broadcasting and artist categories.

[RELATED: Kix Brooks Reflects on Recording Classic Brooks & Dunn Songs with Halestorm, The Cadillac Three, and More on ‘Reboot II’]

Yesterday (November 25), Brooks announced his departure from American Country Countdown. The news came just days after Brooks & Dunn picked up a CMA Award for Vocal Duo of the Year and released their new collaborative album Reboot II. While this may seem like bad news for those who listen to the weekly countdown, it will be good news for fans of the iconic country duo.

Kix Brooks to Focus on Brooks & Dunn After Leaving American Country Countdown

Kix Brooks spoke about his departure from American Country Countdown in a statement. “I never dreamed I would be asked to host a legendary international radio show like American Country Countdown. The fact that I have been supported by hundreds of affiliates and an amazing team of radio professionals for 18 years has made this one of the greatest experiences of my professional life,” he shared.

However, with the renewed popularity of his legendary duo with Ronnie Dunn, Brooks is ready to get back in the saddle full-time. “It’s time to turn my primary focus back to writing, recording, and touring with Brooks & Dunn,” he revealed. “It’s been an honor, to say the least, that I was trusted with a microphone that had such an iconic history. Special thanks to all the fans who listened and participated, to ensure that I was being the best that I could be,” he added. “Keep counting ‘em down!” Brooks concluded.

Brooks won’t immediately vacate his post, though. He’ll continue counting down the hits for the rest of the year. His final broadcast will air the weekend of December 28.

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