by Reba McEntire, (March 28, 1955), is one of the country music genre’s most iconic and influential figures. With a career of over four decades, she has successfully carved a place for herself as a singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur. Reba’s success in the music industry and her ventures in television and film have earned her a multi-faceted legacy. Her blend of storytelling, relatable lyrics, and powerhouse vocals has made her a beloved figure to fans worldwide.
Early Life
Reba Nell McEntire was born on March 28, 1955 McAlester, Oklahoma, and was raised on a ranch in rural Oklahoma. She was the youngest of four children born to Clark and Jacqueline McEntire. Her age is 69. Her father, a well-respected cattle rancher, instilled a strong work ethic in his children, while her mother was a schoolteacher who recognized and nurtured Reba’s musical talent from a young age. Reba grew up surrounded by country music, with her mother being an avid singer and her father encouraging her to pursue her passions.
In her early years, McEntire sang in her local church choir and became involved in competitive music and drama during her school years. She attended Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where she majored in elementary education while continuing to hone her musical skills. It was during her time at college that she first caught the attention of a country music radio DJ who played one of her performances, setting in motion her future career.
Career
The Rise to Stardom
Reba’s first significant break came in 1975 when she was invited to perform the national anthem at the National Rodeo in Oklahoma City. This performance caught the attention of country music legend Red Steagall, who took her under his wing and helped her secure a recording contract with Mercury Records. In 1977, Reba released her debut single which was “I Don’t Want to Be a One Night Stand,” which was well-received but didn’t chart high. Despite this early setback, Reba continued to work on her craft.
Her breakthrough came in 1980 with the release of her album Reba McEntire, which included the hit single “(You Lift Me) Up to Heaven,” marking her first Top 20 hit. The early 1980s were a formative period for McEntire, as she continued to refine her style and sound. Throughout this time, she built a reputation for blending traditional country music with contemporary sensibilities, which resonated with a wide audience.
By the mid-1980s, Reba’s career had truly taken off. In 1984, she released My Kind of Country, which signaled a shift in her musical style. The album featured more honky-tonk sounds and marked the beginning of her climb to superstardom. In the same year, Reba’s hit “How Blue” became her first major hit to reach the top of the country charts, cementing her status as one of country music’s rising stars.
The 1990s: Mainstream Success
The 1990s were a defining decade for Reba McEntire. Her work during this time propelled her from a country star to a mainstream icon. One of the cornerstones of her success was her ability to stay true to her roots while embracing the changing landscape of country music.
In 1991, McEntire released the album For My Broken Heart, which was one of the most successful of her career. The album was inspired by the sudden death of her band members in a tragic plane crash and contained the emotionally charged hit “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia,” a song that topped the country charts. This song introduced her to a new generation of listeners.
Throughout the 1990s, Reba enjoyed an unbroken streak of chart-topping albums and singles, including hits like “Does He Love You,” a duet with Linda Davis, which became one of her most iconic songs. Her remarkable vocal range and ability to convey deep emotion through her lyrics were central to her popularity. Her 1993 album It’s Your Call continued her success, with several chart hits, including the title track, which reached number one.
Her success wasn’t limited to music—Reba made her mark in the world of television as well. In 2001, she starred in the hit sitcom Reba, which ran for six seasons and showcased her comedic timing and acting chops. The show was highly successful, drawing large audiences and establishing Reba as a multifaceted entertainer.
Personal Life
In 1976, she married steer wrestling (champion and rancher Charlie Battles). In 1987 the couple divorced. In 1989, she married Narvel Blackstock (steel guitar player). From Blackstock, she got three stepchildren. In February 1990 they welcomed their son Shelby Steven McEntire Blackstock. However, after 26 years of marriage, the couple announced their divorce in 2015. On October 28, 2015, they divorced.
After that, she married Kelly Clarkson and had a daughter and a son from him. In March 2022 they divorced. In 2017, she was in a relationship with Anthony “Skeeter” Lasuzzo. After six months, they separated. In 2022, she started dating Rex Linn (film and TV actor).
Beyond her work in music and television, Reba has established herself as a savvy businesswoman. She owns a clothing line, a fragrance line, and other merchandise, further solidifying her status as a cultural icon. She also continues to tour regularly, drawing crowds of fans who remain devoted to her powerful performances.
Net Worth
Reba McEntire‘s net worth is calculated to be around $95 million. She has accumulated this wealth through her long and successful career as a country music singer, actress, and businesswoman. Reba has released numerous albums, starred in her TV sitcom Reba, acted in movies, and built a brand through endorsement deals, clothing lines, and other ventures. Her multiple revenue streams continue to contribute to her impressive financial standing.
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