LAS VEGAS, NV. (Top40 Charts/ Wrangler
National Finals Rodeo) - Las
Vegas Events announced today that the song 'Cowboy Town,' recorded by superstar duo Brooks & Dunn, has been adopted as the official song of the Wrangler
National Finals Rodeo (NFR) for the next two years.
Written by Ronnie Dunn, Larry Boone, and Paul Nelson, 'Cowboy Town' captured the spirit of the Wrangler NFR as the title track to Brooks & Dunn's current album. The most-awarded act in Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music history, Brooks & Dunn have sold more than 30 million albums and earned 23 No 1 singles, consistently delivering the kind of entertainment that becomes a perfect match of music and lifestyle, epitomized by ' Cowboy Town .'
Known as the world's richest and most prestigious rodeo, the Wrangler NFR runs from Dec. 6 - 15 and features the top 15 contestants in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding competing for a share of the $5.5 million purse.
The partnership calls for 'Cowboy Town' to be played nightly during the Grand Entry, the introduction of all 118 Wrangler NFR contestants. In addition, Brooks & Dunn will perform 'Cowboy Town' live to open the evening's events on Thursday, Dec. 13.
Now in its 49th year, the Wrangler NFR is beginning preparations for its 50th anniversary, a milestone it will reach in 2008. The dates for the Wrangler NFR next year are Dec. 4 - 13. The song 'Cowboy Town' will become an integral part of the promotional plan for the anniversary celebration.
'We are approaching a significant moment in the history of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo," said Keith Martin, the PRCA's Chairman of the Board and interim CEO. "The introduction of this theme will help build excitement for the rodeo's golden anniversary."
'This is an extremely important partnership for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo,' said Pat Christenson, president of Las Vegas Events. 'This gives the NFR a themed opening song from one of America 's iconic artists, something that we've never had before. ''Cowboy Town' will be a cornerstone of the 50th anniversary celebration next year.'
In 2006, the event had a total event attendance of 175,649 over the 10 days of competition. The Wrangler NFR has sold out more than 210 consecutive performances. According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the estimated non-gaming economic impact of the 2006 event was $52.8 million.
For additional information on Wrangler NFR entertainment, transportation and shuttle buses, please visit www.NFRexperience.com. Additional information about Las Vegas can be found at www.VisitLasVegas.com.
