New York, NY / Nashville, TN — A true icon of country music and one of America’s most enduring voices, Reba McEntire has officially been named to TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Music, joining a prestigious list of artists shaping the sound — and soul — of the modern era.
The honor recognizes not only Reba’s extraordinary four-decade career of chart-topping hits, acclaimed television work, and trailblazing artistry, but also her unwavering commitment to authenticity, resilience, and empowerment.
“Reba doesn’t just sing songs — she tells the story of America’s heart,” TIME’s profile reads.
Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, Reba rose from rodeo arenas and local honky-tonks to become one of the most decorated artists in history — with over 75 million albums sold, 16 ACM Awards, 3 Grammys, and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Yet beyond the accolades, her true influence lies in how she redefined what it means to be a woman in country music — strong, compassionate, and unafraid to take the reins.
Her songs — from “Fancy” to “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” — are stories of survival and self-worth, anthems that continue to resonate across generations. Offstage, her kindness and humility have made her not just a star, but a symbol of grace under pressure and integrity in an ever-changing industry.
“I’ve always tried to stay true to who I am,” Reba said in response to the announcement. “If my music or my journey has helped someone else find their strength, then that’s the greatest honor of all.”
In recognizing Reba McEntire, TIME honors more than a performer — it celebrates a pioneer, a storyteller, and a living legend whose voice continues to unite, heal, and inspire.
As country music evolves and generations change, one truth remains: Reba’s voice still feels like home.
