Brooks & Dunn photo courtesy of Arista Nashville
March 6, 2007 — Along with yesterday's announcement of nominees for the 42nd Academy of Country Music Awards, the ACM also announced that Brooks & Dunn will receive the 2007 ACM/Home Depot Humanitarian Award during the awards ceremony.
In its sixth year, the Humanitarian Award recognizes artists who serve others, have a generous spirit and help build the dreams of those in need. Brooks & Dunn, all-time ACM trophy leaders, were selected by a committee comprised of executives in the country music industry as well as local and national philanthropic leaders for their ongoing community service and charitable giving of their time and talent.
"Over the years, Kix and Ronnie have done so much to help others. But what strikes me about them is that they do it with joy and laughter," said Gayle Holcomb, chairman of the board of directors. "The Academy often uses the phrase 'Party for a Cause'. These two guys take a party wherever they go and others feel their burdens are lighter because of it."
Brooks & Dunn will receive a crystal Tiffany trophy at the show and will also be honored with a playground to be built in the location of their choice. Past recipients of the Humanitarian Award include Vince Gill, Lonestar, Martina McBride, Neal McCoy and Reba McEntire.
"In our career, Ronnie and I have done things we could have only dreamed of, but the most rewarding has been when we've made a difference for someone else," Kix Brooks said.
"We appreciate the Home Depot and the Academy giving us this award, but what makes it even better is that a bunch of kids will get a new playground," Ronnie Dunn added.
Brooks & Dunn have worked with many charities, including Hurricane Katrina relief, Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, the Ronald McDonald House and Laughter for the Children, which benefits a Nashville children's home.