Reba McEntire | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : December 27, 2024

Who is Reba McEntire?

Reba McEntire, known as the "Queen of Country," was born on March 28, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma. Her journey into music began at an early age, influenced by her family's rich background in rodeo and the arts. Reba, along with her siblings, initially formed the singing group the Singing McEntires. This early foray into performance set the stage for her breakthrough in the music industry, which came when she performed the national anthem at the 1974 National Finals Rodeo. Shortly after, she was discovered by country music star Red Steagall, which led to a recording contract that launched her illustrious career.

Reba's professional ascent began in the late 1970s with her debut album, and by the 1980s, she had solidified her status within the country music landscape. With numerous chart-topping hits, including classics like "Fancy" and "Whoever's in New England," McEntire has been honored with countless accolades, including four prestigious Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2011. Beyond her impressive musical career, Reba has also made significant strides in acting, starring in hit television series and films, demonstrating her versatility in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Reba Nell McEntire was born on March 28, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma, where she grew up in a family of champion steer ropers. Her upbringing in a rodeo culture not only shaped her character but also ignited her passion for music. She was one of four siblings—brother Pake and sisters Susie and Alice—whose parents, Clark and Jacqueline McEntire, encouraged their musical talents. Long car rides to rodeo events allowed the family to bond through singing and harmonizing, thus laying the foundation for Reba's future music career.

During her teenage years, McEntire and her younger siblings formed a group called the Singing McEntires, performing at local rodeos. However, as they grew older, Reba began to pursue music independently. She honed her craft while attending Southeastern Oklahoma State University, majoring in Elementary Education. Despite her academic focus, McEntire's love for music remained strong, and her breakthrough moment came in 1974 when she captivated audiences by singing the national anthem at the National Finals Rodeo. This performance led to her first recording opportunities, marking the beginning of her iconic career in country music.

Country Music Stardom: Breakthrough in 1974

Reba McEntire’s journey into country music truly began in 1974 when her captivating rendition of the national anthem caught the attention of country music veterans. This performance at the National Finals Rodeo opened doors for her, eventually leading to a meeting with Red Steagall, who would help her secure a recording contract with Mercury Records. Her debut album, simply titled "Reba McEntire," was released in 1977, marking the start of a prolific career that would see her become one of the most celebrated figures in country music history.

Despite a slow start, McEntire's dedication and talent gradually earned her accolades and chart-topping hits throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s. The turning point in her career came in 1980 when her single “You Lift Me Up (To Heaven)” broke into the top ten of Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. This success heralded her emergence as the “Queen of Country,” with her powerful voice and bold stage presence soon captivating audiences nationwide. In the usually male-dominated Nashville scene, McEntire's resilience, work ethic, and authenticity allowed her to outshine many of her contemporaries and solidify her status within the genre.

Achievements and Notable Success in Music

Reba McEntire, known as the "Queen of Country," has made significant strides in the music industry since she began her career in the 1970s. With over 30 studio albums to her name, McEntire boasts an impressive catalog that includes numerous chart-topping hits. She has garnered four Grammy Awards, along with numerous accolades from the Country Music Association (CMA), which recognized her as Best Female Vocalist four times. Her groundbreaking album, "Whoever’s in New England," released in 1986, showcased her unique blend of traditional country and pop sounds, earning her critical acclaim and establishing her as a key figure in the country music genre.

McEntire's innovative approach to music videos revolutionized the way narratives were presented in country music, leading to her first CMA Entertainer of the Year award in 1986. She has delivered numerous hit singles, including enduring classics like "Fancy," "Consider Me Gone," and "Does He Love You." The immense popularity of her albums, particularly "Rumor Has It," which went triple platinum, exemplifies her commercial success. In 2011, her induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in the industry, proving that her impact on music and culture extends beyond mere record sales. McEntire's career continues to thrive, evidenced by her recent acoustic album, "Not That Fancy," released in October 2023.

Acting Career Highlights

Reba McEntire's transition from country music superstar to accomplished actress is a testament to her versatile talent and charisma. She made her film debut in the 1990 cult classic "Tremors," showcasing her ability to blend humor and drama. In 1994, she took on the role of a race car driver in "The Little Rascals," further solidifying her place in Hollywood. McEntire also starred in several made-for-television movies, which helped her gain recognition as an actress outside of the music industry.

In 2001, McEntire achieved significant success with her sitcom "Reba," where she played a divorced mother navigating the challenges of life and family. The show aired for six seasons, earning McEntire a Golden Globe nomination and further cementing her status as a multifaceted entertainer. McEntire's acting prowess was also evident on the stage, where she garnered acclaim for her portrayal of Annie Oakley in the Broadway revival of "Annie Get Your Gun." Throughout her career, she has seamlessly blended her musical and acting talents, captivating audiences across multiple entertainment platforms.

Personal Life: Dating, Ex-Husbands and Son

Reba McEntire has experienced a journey filled with both love and heartache throughout her personal life. Her first marriage was to Charlie Battles, a steer wrestling champion, in 1976. The couple shared a ranch in Oklahoma, but their relationship deteriorated as McEntire's music career began to take off. Their divorce in 1987 marked a significant turning point, prompting McEntire to relocate to Nashville to focus on her burgeoning career. In 1989, she married her manager, Narvel Blackstock, who had three children from a previous marriage. Reba and Narvel welcomed their son, Shelby McEntire Blackstock, in 1990, creating a blended family.

After 26 years of marriage, McEntire and Blackstock announced their separation in 2015. Following her divorce, she briefly dated Anthony “Skeeter” Lasuzzo from 2017 to 2019. In a delightful twist of fate, McEntire reconnected with actor Rex Linn, whom she originally met in 1991 on the set of "The Gambler Returns." Their renewed romance blossomed during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing that love can transcend time and circumstance. Despite her ups and downs, Reba has remained resilient and continues to thrive both personally and professionally.

Net Worth and Earning: Estimated $95 Million

Reba McEntire, the iconic "Queen of Country," has amassed a fortune over her illustrious career, with an estimated net worth of around $95 million as of July 2023. This impressive figure reflects her success as a recording artist, with over 30 studio albums to her name, countless hit singles, and numerous awards, including multiple Grammy wins. McEntire’s ability to resonate with a wide audience has been a cornerstone of her financial success, as she has not only excelled in music but has also made significant strides in television and film, further enhancing her wealth.

McEntire’s income streams are diverse and include sales from her albums, lucrative touring engagements, acting roles in TV shows and movies, as well as her entrepreneurial ventures, such as merchandise and branded products. In 2023, she joined NBC's singing competition The Voice as a celebrity coach, showcasing her enduring relevance in the entertainment industry. This role adds to her visibility and star power, contributing to increased public interest and sales potential, which ultimately supports her impressive net worth. With a well-rounded career that spans decades, McEntire continues to solidify her status as a powerhouse in country music and beyond.