US country duo Brooks & Dunn

Brooks & Dunn, the biggest-selling duo in country music history, are splitting up after 20 years together, the musicians said on Monday.

Singer/guitarists Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn said in a statement that "it's just time," but that they would launch a farewell tour next year.

"After 20 years of making music and riding this trail together, we have agreed as a duo that it's time call it a day," they said.

"This ride has been everything and more than we could ever have dreamed.... We owe it all to you, the fans. If you hear rumors, don't believe them, it's just time."

Brooks & Dunn topped the U.S. country singles charts 20 times with such tunes as "Brand New Man," the title track from their debut 1991 album; and "Only in America," a patriotic 2001 anthem used by both the Republicans and Democrats during election campaigns.

According to their Web site, Brooks & Dunn have sold more than 30 million albums. They also won two Grammy awards.

(CRI/Reuters August 11, 2009)