Brooks's universal popularity is reflected by the diverse audiences who attend his no-holds-barred live concerts, whitch blend rock n' roll theatrics with his country flavored music. Men and womem, fans of Rock music and country and a cross section of young adults from various economic levels make up the fans in Brooks's audiences. His concerts routinely sell out in minutes. Seats for his 1992 L.A Fourm show, for example were filled in a scant 14 minutes.

Brooks made history when he walked away with six Academy of Country Music Awards in April 1991. He also received trophies from every other awards organization that year, including the Coutnry Music Association, the TNN Music City News Awards, the Billboard Music Awards and the Grammy Awards.

Despite the attention Brooks has maintained a humble self-deprecating manner so seemingly genuine that few doubt its sincerity. At the "Night off 100 Stars" benefit in 1990 Brooks modestly observed "it was more like 99 stars and me." In an industry where battle-hardened veterans are the norm, the chorus of praise for Brooks's generosity and earnestness seems unamimous.

Brooks has also gained notoriety for his outspoken support of civil rights, as well as other contemporary and often controversial issues. The vidieo for his single "The Thunder Rolls" from the No Fences album, was the first to be banned by The Nashville Network and Country Music Television for what was deemed unsuitable content, it is a disturbing look at domestic violence. His video for the song "We Shall Be Free" from The Chase is a star studded extravaganza that encourages Americans to abandon their prejudices and accept other. "We Shall Be Free" was named Video of the Year at the 1994 Academy of Country Music Awards.