Introduction
You Can’t Take The Honky Tonk Out Of The Girl” is a quintessential Brooks & Dunn track, embodying the high-energy, unapologetically fun style that defined the duo’s success in the 1990s and 2000s. Released in 2003 on the album Red Dirt Road, the song is a vibrant, uptempo celebration of a woman who may have adopted a polished exterior but whose heart—and soul—still belongs to the simple, spirited life of the country bar. It’s a testament to the enduring power of roots and a playful nod to the idea that you can take the girl out of the honky tonk, but you can’t take the honky tonk out of the girl.
Musically, the song is built on a driving rhythm, featuring the signature twangy electric guitars and a punchy, insistent drumbeat that immediately compels listeners to tap their feet. Kix Brooks’s dynamic lead vocals deliver the story with a grin and a wink, recounting how his partner, despite her sophisticated new wardrobe and refined tastes, still shows her true colors when the right song comes on. The lyrics paint a vivid, humorous picture: “She might be sipping champagne instead of beer,” but the moment the jukebox plays “Strait or Haggard,” she’s kicking off her heels and heading for the dance floor. Ronnie Dunn’s harmonies on the chorus are strong and perfectly blended, adding depth and a sense of shared camaraderie to the track’s infectious energy.
More than just a party anthem, the song is a lighthearted commentary on identity and staying true to oneself. It connects with the core country music audience by validating their lifestyle and values, proving that genuine character always shines through manufactured glamour. It’s a spirited, feel-good barnburner that remains a staple of their live performances and a perfect example of why Brooks & Dunn were, and still are, one of the most successful duos in country music history. The track is pure, unadulterated honky-tonk rock and roll, tailored for a Friday night out.