Kix Brooks Stars in and Produces New Film, ‘Ambush at Dark Canyon’

Kix Brooks' role as one-half of the award-winning duo Brooks & Dunn might have ended in 2010, but he isn't about to ease into retirement.

The singer-songwriter is adding lead actor and producer to his already lengthy list of accomplishments. Brooks recently took on his first starring role in the new western film, 'Ambush at Dark Canyon.'

"I think a lot of us grew up being fans of westerns and those old TV shows," he explains to Billboard magazine. "It's the cowboy hat, jeans and boots, and it goes along with our music. It's that simple and honest mentality. Most westerns are basically good vs. evil, and people like watching westerns because they know that in the end, the good guy is going to get the best of them."

The 58-year-old also serves as executive producer of the holiday film 'A Country Christmas,' which is now available on DVD and at all retail outlets. The movie is the first release in his new family-friendly entertainment brand, and includes special appearances by Trace Adkins and Rascal Flatts band member Jay DeMarcus. Brooks and DeMarcus also teamed up to produce the music for the Christmas movie.

The tunesmith says he feels fortunate to be able to pursue so many creative endeavors.

“My fans have continued to let me keep doing what I do, whether that’s as an artist, radio host or actor,” Brooks notes. “They’ve given me the chance to try new things and a reason to work harder than I ever have before. I’m really proud of all of these projects and can’t wait to see what we get into next!”

The Louisiana native says he hopes to combine his love of music and acting even more in the future. "I'm gonna keep drawing on some country music artists along with some Hollywood actors," Brooks maintains, "and make some movies that people will enjoy that they can take their families to."

This is not Brooks' first foray into acting. He also appears in the upcoming film, 'Thriftstore Cowboy,' as well as the TV mini-series, 'To Appomattox,' which will air in 2014.

Brooks serves as the host for the American Country Countdown, which has earned him three CMA Awards for National Broadcast Personality of the Year. He also hosts his own radio show, 'Kickin' It With Kix,' and serves as a columnist for Country Weekly magazine. His first solo album since Brooks & Dunn, 'New to This Town,' was released in 2012.

'Ambush at Dark' is available now on demand, and will be available at Walmart and Sam's Club on Jan. 14, and at all other retailers on March 11. The Walmart release exclusively features a CD soundtrack, produced by Brooks, which includes a collaboration with Randy Houser, who also appears in the film.