The Ranch

"The Ranch" was a country music band formed by actor and musician Kix Brooks in the 1990s. Here are some key facts about the group:

1. Formation and Members: The Ranch was formed in 1997 by Kix Brooks, who is best known as one half of the country duo Brooks & Dunn. The band also included singer-songwriter Ronnie Dunn, who would later go on to achieve massive success with Brooks as Brooks & Dunn. The third member of The Ranch was guitarist and songwriter Gregg "Hobie" Hubbard. The trio came together to explore a more rock-oriented sound than Brooks & Dunn's traditional country style.

2. Musical Style and Sound: The Ranch's music was a departure from the traditional country sound of Brooks & Dunn. Instead, they embraced a more rock-infused style, incorporating elements of country rock, southern rock, and blues into their songs. Their music featured gritty guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and Brooks and Dunn's distinct vocal harmonies. While The Ranch's sound was different from Brooks & Dunn's, it still showcased the duo's songwriting prowess and musical versatility.

3. Albums and Discography: The Ranch released their self-titled debut album in 1997. The album featured a mix of original songs written by Brooks, Dunn, and Hubbard, as well as a cover of the Tom Petty song "Breakdown". Despite receiving positive reviews from critics, the album did not achieve commercial success, and The Ranch disbanded shortly after its release. However, the album has since gained a cult following among fans of Brooks & Dunn and country rock music.

4. Impact and Legacy: While The Ranch's time as a band was relatively short-lived, their music laid the groundwork for Brooks & Dunn's later success. The experience of experimenting with a different musical style helped Brooks and Dunn refine their sound and broaden their appeal as artists. Additionally, The Ranch's lone album remains a cherished part of Brooks & Dunn's discography, offering fans a glimpse into the duo's musical evolution.

5. Post-Breakup Careers: After The Ranch disbanded, Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn reunited as Brooks & Dunn and went on to become one of the most successful duos in country music history. They released numerous hit albums and singles, won multiple awards, and became fixtures on the country music charts. Meanwhile, Gregg "Hobie" Hubbard continued to pursue his career as a songwriter and musician, collaborating with other artists and releasing his own music. Despite going their separate ways, the members of The Ranch left an indelible mark on the country music industry, and their contributions continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.