Brooks & Dunn "My Maria"

When Brooks & Dunn released “My Maria” in 1996, many fans assumed it was a brand-new song. In reality, the duo was putting their own spin on a rock classic that had already enjoyed success more than two decades earlier. Their version not only introduced the song to a new generation but also became one of the biggest hits of their career.

“My Maria” was written by Daniel Moore and was first recorded by B.W. Stevenson in 1973. Stevenson’s original version, which blended rock, country, and blues influences, climbed to No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1973 and became his signature hit. The song’s infectious melody and upbeat rhythm made it a favorite on both pop and country radio.

Brooks & Dunn had long admired Stevenson’s recording, and when they were choosing songs for their album Borderline, they decided to pay tribute to the late Texas singer, who had died in 1988. Rather than simply recreating the original, producer Don Cook helped the duo craft a fresh arrangement that leaned into their signature blend of honky-tonk country, rock guitars, and tight vocal harmonies.

Released as the second single from Borderline, Brooks & Dunn’s version quickly caught fire. It soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, where it remained for three consecutive weeks. The song also became one of the year’s most-played country singles and helped propel Borderline to multi-platinum success.

The recording earned Brooks & Dunn the Grammy Award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal at the 39th Annual Grammy Awards. It was another milestone for a duo that was already redefining modern country music during the 1990s.

Ronnie Dunn’s powerhouse lead vocal is one of the reasons the song resonated so strongly with audiences. His soulful delivery captured both the joy and longing woven throughout the lyrics, while Kix Brooks added the duo’s unmistakable harmonies. Together, they transformed a beloved rock song into a country anthem without losing the spirit that made the original so memorable.

Over the years, Ronnie Dunn has spoken about his admiration for B.W. Stevenson and the opportunity to introduce “My Maria” to country audiences. The song has remained a staple of Brooks & Dunn’s live shows, often drawing one of the loudest singalongs of the night.

Today, “My Maria” stands as one of Brooks & Dunn’s defining hits. It serves as a reminder that a great song can cross genres and generations, proving that the right artists can breathe new life into a classic while honoring its roots. More than 25 years after topping the country charts, the song continues to be a fan favorite and an essential part of Brooks & Dunn’s legendary catalog.