Reba McEntire's earliest memories take her back to the warmth of home, where singing was as natural as breathing. Growing up, Reba fondly recalls harmonizing with her mother, Jacqueline Smith McEntire. For Jacqueline, music wasn’t just a pastime; it was a way of life. "It’s just something you do, like washing your hands or combing your hair," Jacqueline shares with a chuckle. "Music was in our blood. My mother sang. My daddy sang, and I simply passed it on to my children." This early exposure to music sowed the seeds of what would become Reba’s illustrious career.
At 64, Reba has taken those cherished childhood sing-alongs and transformed them into a heartfelt tribute to her mother. In her latest album, Stronger Than the Truth, the track "You Never Gave Up on Me" is a poignant nod to Jacqueline's unwavering support. "I got the idea because, honestly, who besides God has never given up on me?" Reba muses. The song isn't just a melody; it’s a testament to the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child.
View this post on Instagram@shelbyblackstock Shelby, she never LET me win either… #lovemymama
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Jackie McEntire: The Backbone of a Family
Jacqueline McEntire, now 92, wasn’t just a mom; she was a former school teacher and Oklahoma rancher who raised four children with grace and grit. "There's nothing as close as the bond between a mother and her child," Jacqueline reflects. She's always been fiercely proud of all her kids—Alice, Pake, Reba, and Susie. Reba remembers the way her mom would respond to admirers: "People would say, ‘Oh Jackie, aren’t you proud of Reba?’ And she'd reply, ‘All my kids are good. I love every one of them.’” Jacqueline’s equal love and pride set a tone of inclusion and encouragement for all her children.
Reba's Inheritance of Passion
Reba, the third child born to Jacqueline and her late husband, Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Clark McEntire, inherited more than just her mother’s fiery red hair. She also absorbed Jacqueline’s love for music. "[Reba] always liked being the center of attention," Jacqueline recalls with a proud smile. "I knew she had the desire and the stability to make it big." Jacqueline's confidence in her daughter's potential was evident from the start, and it fueled Reba’s journey to stardom.
View this post on InstagramHappy birthday Mama! You have always been our biggest cheerleader, you always made us mind but more than anything, you’ve loved us with all your heart. We love you always! Total unconditional love! You’re our best friend. #@aliceforan @susieqmaceaton #pakemcentire @reba
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A Song That Resonated Deeply
Reba first chose "You Never Gave Up on Me" for her 2017 gospel collection, but it didn’t make the final cut. However, the song lingered in her heart. "That’s a great song for my mama," Reba thought, unable to forget its emotional pull. Recorded in one powerful take, Reba unveiled the song to Jacqueline last Christmas. "I sent the lyrics ahead of time, so she could follow along and make sure she heard every word," Reba explains. "She cried. She loved it. But I meant every word with all my heart." The song is a beautiful reminder of the sacrifices and unconditional love mothers give to their children.
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