Netflix has officially announced an emotional new music documentary centered on the life and legacy of Ronald Gene Dunn, widely known as Ronnie Dunn. Titled Cowboy Soul, the film will premiere globally on February 14, 2026, offering an intimate look into the country star’s rise from small-town beginnings to his defining role in country music—both as one-half of the legendary duo Brooks & Dunn and as a powerhouse solo artist. The streaming platform describes it as “a portrait of perseverance, twang, and timeless talent.”
Ronnie Dunn began his solo journey in 2011 after the temporary split of Brooks & Dunn, embarking on a path that revealed new emotional layers in his songwriting and sound. Known for his soaring tenor vocals and storytelling lyrics, Dunn carved out a unique place in modern country music. Cowboy Soul explores his early days in Texas and Oklahoma, his deep ties to honky-tonk culture, and the business acumen that later made him a record executive and industry mentor.
The documentary features appearances and interviews from major figures in country music and beyond, including Kix Brooks, Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Sheryl Crow, and Brad Paisley. Actors such as Kevin Costner and Sam Elliott, both longtime friends and admirers of Dunn’s cinematic style, also appear, reflecting on his impact beyond the stage. Through personal stories and never-before-seen footage, the film pieces together Dunn’s identity as both a grounded cowboy and a transcendent performer.
One of the highlights of Cowboy Soul is its soundtrack, which includes remastered hits such as Bleed Red, Cost of Livin’, and I Wish I Still Smoked Cigarettes. Several unreleased acoustic demos will make their debut in the film, alongside heartfelt tributes from rising country stars like Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, and Morgan Wallen, who credit Dunn as a vocal influence and songwriting hero. Music supervisors also hint at a surprise duet with Faith Hill, recorded specifically for the documentary.
Thematically, the film delves deep into Dunn’s exploration of spirituality, personal loss, and American identity through his music. It also highlights his artistic risks—blending traditional country with gospel, rock, and even EDM influences in later projects. The documentary doesn’t shy away from his moments of doubt or controversy but embraces the complexity of an artist who never stopped evolving while staying rooted in the soul of country storytelling.
Directed by Barbara Kopple, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind Shut Up & Sing and Wild Man Blues, the documentary is rich in emotional nuance and cinematic realism. Kopple said, “Ronnie Dunn’s voice tells you stories, but his silence between the notes—that’s where the real man lives.” With access to Dunn’s handwritten lyrics, personal journals, and recording sessions, Cowboy Soul provides an unparalleled portrait of a country icon.
As the February 14, 2026 premiere date approaches, anticipation is building among fans, critics, and country music circles. Cowboy Soul promises to be more than a documentary—it’s a tribute to resilience, authenticity, and the quiet charisma of a man who helped shape country music’s golden era. Whether you’re a longtime Brooks & Dunn fan or discovering Ronnie Dunn for the first time, this film will be a must-watch celebration of a legacy still being written.
