Luke Bryan was one of three artists who paid tribute to Brooks & Dunn during the Country Music Hall of Fame medallion ceremony on Sunday (Oct. 20). He was there for the two singers as a fan, and because they were there for him many years ago.

Bryan sang "Red Dirt Road" during the ceremony, staying true to the 2003 hit despite heavy nerves. Before performed, the "Knockin' Boots" singer recalled getting a phone call shortly after his sister died unexpectedly in 2007.

"I picked it up and it was Kix Brooks on the phone, just telling me he was sorry about our loss," Bryan shared (quote via PopCulture). "I never will forget it. What an amazing gesture. I hung the phone up and called my whole family and we were just amazed at that gesture."

Ronnie Dunn helped Bryan during a different trying time in his life. His voice was giving out nightly from overuse, so with some help, he had a conversation with one of country's all-time greatest. "He spent 35 minutes on the phone with me telling me probably what I was doing wrong," Bryan recalled. "That's what country music is all about ... It's just what it's all about. And I just can't thank you guys enough for those moments. It's an honor to be here."

Trisha Yearwood's version of "Believe" and Brothers Osborne's version of "Brand New Man" also paid tribute to the country music duo. Additionally, artists took the stage to honor Ray Stevens and songwriter Jerry Bradley.

See Photos from the 2019 Medallion Ceremony:

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