A Conversation With Reba McEntire

A master of music and television, Reba McEntire sat down to discuss her new gospel album and other current projects. McEntire is one of the few entertainers who is able to simply go by her first name and have everyone know whose being referred to. She has sold more than 75 million records worldwide and has several acting credits, the most famous being her own sitcom. Now she wants her fans to know what is next.

Prior to appearing as one of the performers from the very memorable Academy Awards

ceremony a couple weeks back, McEntire revealed her anticipation. She last performed at the awards ceremony in 1991, right after a tragic plane crash that took the lives of eight band members she worked with. “Meryl Streep was pregnant and couldn’t perform, so they asked me to do it. I almost didn’t do it because of the plane crash, but I did sing it. Now here we are all these years later and I’m singing another song by Diane Warren that is so powerful and needed because it gives hope,” she shares.

McEntire would go on to perform the Oscar-nominated song “Somehow You Do” from the film Four Good Days at the 2022 ceremony. Blink-182's infamous drummer Travis Barker was also featured on the drums during her performance.

The proud Okie was thrilled to talk about her latest project that brought her back to her roots. My Chains Are Gone is a collection of her favorite gospel hymns and songs. “I want them to take away a sense of gratitude, thankfulness, and to take them back to when they first heard those songs. I remember being in a one room country church in Oklahoma. I really hope it touches people’s hearts.” When it came time to pick favorite songs, McEntire found that hard considering she has loved so many. “Songs like 'How Great Thou Art,' that was grandma’s favorite song. It takes me back to my first memory of knowing the Lord. I can’t remember not knowing the Lord and having angels with me. All of these songs are special to me," she admits.

McEntire also took the time to talk about one of her most special, personal projects. Reba’s Ranch House is celebrating its 30 year anniversary in 2022. Her non-profit organization is designed to give families a place to stay while their loved ones are in the hospital. “It’s a wonderful thing to be a part of,” says the singer. The center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. McEntire's big heart shows in nearly every project she takes part in, and hearing her optimism and hope while speaking about her passions is contagious to those who get the chance to listen.

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