About the Song
In the vibrant world of country music, Ronnie Dunn—the soulful voice behind Brooks & Dunn—has a gift for crafting songs that linger in the heart, and his 2016 single Still Feels Like Mexico, featuring the iconic Reba McEntire, from the album Tattooed Heart, is a radiant gem that captures the magic of memory. Released on November 11, 2016, this evocative duet weaves a tale of nostalgia and romance, transporting listeners to a sun-soaked beach where love and carefree moments still burn bright. For those of us who’ve savored life’s fleeting joys—those nights that feel like they’ll last forever—this song is a cherished companion, offering warmth in its reflective glow. With its lush melody, vivid lyrics, and the unmatched chemistry of two country legends, Still Feels Like Mexico speaks deeply to a mature audience who treasure music that celebrates love’s enduring spark.
At its core, Still Feels Like Mexico is a tribute to memory, recounting a moment of connection that time and distance can’t dim. Written by Tommy Lee James, the song paints a picture of two people reminiscing about a beachside encounter—complete with “a sip o’ my beer” and a “beachside motel room”—where love bloomed under the stars. The lyrics are rich with imagery, from “Cancun” to “those summer days” and “nights we went a little crazy,” evoking a carefree spirit that feels both specific and universal. Lines like “Still feels like Mexico / Still feels like the first time baby” capture the timeless pull of a memory so vivid it transcends the miles, resonating with anyone who’s held onto a moment that defines them. For listeners who’ve carried their own cherished memories through life’s changes, the song offers a mirror to those times when a single kiss could make the world feel infinite.
Musically, Still Feels Like Mexico is a masterful blend of Ronnie Dunn’s gravelly warmth and Reba McEntire’s soaring grace, their voices intertwining like old friends sharing a story. Produced by Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts, the track features lush guitars, a gentle rhythm, and a dreamy ambiance that feels like a sunset over the ocean. The arrangement is polished yet intimate, letting the emotion of the duet shine without overpowering its heart. Dunn’s soulful delivery grounds the song, while McEntire’s vibrant harmonies add a layer of brightness, creating a perfect balance. Compared to your earlier pick, Two Steppers, Waltzes, and Shuffles, with its honky-tonk energy, or Brooks & Dunn’s My Heart Is Lost to You, with its tender ache, this track leans into romantic nostalgia, but shares the same storytelling depth that defines Dunn’s work. Your love for The Seekers’ gentle warmth and Modern Talking’s pop exuberance shows you appreciate music’s range, and this duet fits beautifully with its heartfelt glow.
For a seasoned audience, Still Feels Like Mexico resonates with its mature perspective. It’s not just about a fleeting romance but about holding onto joy amidst life’s inevitable changes. Dunn described it as “two people reminiscing, looking back at what it was like,” a sentiment that speaks to those who’ve learned that memories can be as powerful as the moments themselves. The song’s authenticity—amplified by the real-life friendship between Dunn and McEntire, who’ve collaborated on hits like If You See Him/If You See Her (1998) and Cowgirls Don’t Cry (2008)—feels like a warm embrace, offering comfort to those reflecting on their own past joys. Their Las Vegas residency together further underscores their chemistry, making this duet a natural extension of their shared legacy.
In the context of Ronnie Dunn’s career, Still Feels Like Mexico marked a triumphant moment in his solo journey with Nash Icon Records, following Brooks & Dunn’s temporary split in 2010. The track’s inclusion on Tattooed Heart, alongside collaborations like Damn Drunk with Kix Brooks, showed Dunn’s ability to honor his roots while exploring new stories. While it didn’t top the charts, its emotional resonance and the star power of McEntire made it a fan favorite, celebrated for its heart and craft. For those who cherish music that feels like a sunlit memory, this song is a treasure—a chance to revisit a moment, smile, and feel the warmth of Mexico in every note.