It’s nearly impossible to fight back tears as Jelly Roll delivers a soul-stirring performance alongside Brooks & Dunn at the 2024 CMA Awards
CMT has reimagined VH1’s iconic Storytellers series, breathing new life into the beloved concept under the banner of CMT Storytellers. Combining intimate storytelling with unforgettable live performances, the revival promises a fresh take on exploring the creative process behind music, catering to fans across genres.
The inaugural episode, CMT Storytellers: Brooks & Dunn, premieres on April 13 at 7 p.m. CT, featuring the legendary country duo known for their masterful songwriting and electrifying performances. With quarterly episodes planned, available on Paramount+, CMT aims to make each installment a celebration of musical heritage and creative expression that resonates with fans of all generations.
Staying true to the original format, CMT Storytellers invites artists to perform for an intimate audience while sharing personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories that define their artistry. While rooted in country music, the series will also feature a diverse array of musical styles, offering fans a multifaceted glimpse into the lives of celebrated performers.
Originally airing on VH1 from 1996 to 2015, the Storytellers franchise showcased luminaries like Elton John, Billy Joel, David Bowie, Garth Brooks, and Willie Nelson. CMT’s revival carries forward this rich legacy, honoring the tradition of musical storytelling while bridging generations of fans under the Paramount banner.
Margaret Comeaux, CMT’s senior vice president of production, expressed her excitement about the relaunch: “Reviving this iconic series is an honor. With Storytellers‘ legacy of nearly 100 episodes on VH1, it felt fitting to bring it back in monumental fashion with Brooks & Dunn, two of country music’s finest storytellers.” Her enthusiasm underscores the network’s dedication to making the series a cornerstone of authentic and heartfelt music programming.
Brooks & Dunn, celebrated for their dynamic stage presence and songwriting prowess, embody the spirit of storytelling through music. With 14 CMA Vocal Duo of the Year awards and countless hits, their episode focuses on the artistry and dedication behind their enduring success. Ronnie Dunn, a Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, emphasized their songwriting roots, reflecting on how iconic tracks like Boot Scootin’ Boogie became cultural phenomena. Kix Brooks highlighted their collaborative spirit, recounting their journey from solo endeavors to creating chart-topping duets like Brand New Man and My Next Broken Heart.
The duo’s spontaneity and authenticity remain central to their performances, as Kix Brooks shared: “We’ve never been ones to over-rehearse or plan everything out. That’s what makes our shows special—the magic of the moment.” This unfiltered approach continues to captivate audiences, whether through live arena tours or the intimate setting of CMT Storytellers.
Looking ahead, Brooks & Dunn will embark on their Reboot 2022 Tour, marking their return to arenas with a lineup of fresh opening acts like Gabby Barrett and Jon Pardi. These performances promise to deliver the timeless music fans cherish while introducing a new generation to the duo’s live sound.
As part of its broader programming slate, CMT is also bringing back Campfire Sessions with Little Big Town and celebrating LeAnn Rimes’ 25-year career on CMT Crossroads. These projects, alongside CMT Storytellers, highlight the network’s dedication to honoring storytelling in music.
Through its revival of Storytellers, CMT bridges the nostalgic charm of its predecessor with a contemporary vibrancy, creating an immersive experience for fans old and new. With Brooks & Dunn leading the charge, the series not only celebrates musical legacies but also fosters a renewed appreciation for the power of storytelling and live performance, setting the stage for a new era of musical innovation and connection.
