Is Reba a good place to start with Reba McEntire?

Yes, Reba is recommended as a starting point for new Reba McEntire listeners. A blend of heartfelt narratives and traditional melodies that showcase Reba McEntire's powerful voice and storytelling prowess. Released in 1989, Reba is McEntire's third studio album, following her breakthrough with 'My Kind of Country' in 1984. By this time, she had solidified her place in country music, transitioning from regional success to national acclaim, as evidenced by her growing fanbase and increasing radio play.

Reba works well if you're into steady mid-tempo storytelling, heartfelt themes of love and for casual gatherings.

How many songs are on Reba?

Reba has 10 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Reba

Reba McEntire · 1989

35 min · 10 tracks · country music

A blend of heartfelt narratives and traditional melodies that showcase Reba McEntire's powerful voice and storytelling prowess.

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Top tracks — play these first

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So, So, So Long Start here — Opening with an infectious melody, this track captures the essence of heartbreak while showcasing McEntire’s emotive vocal delivery.
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I Know How He Feels — This song embodies the theme of shared experiences in love, allowing McEntire to explore complex emotions through her nuanced performance.
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Respect — A bold cover that highlights McEntire's versatility, this track stands out for its assertive message and dynamic vocal execution.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and production typical of late '80s country but lacks standout innovation.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of traditional country instrumentation, including steel guitar and fiddle, throughout its ten tracks.
Each song typically follows a verse-chorus structure, with McEntire's vocals prominently featured in the mix.
Several tracks incorporate background harmonies that enhance the storytelling aspect of the lyrics.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo storytelling
heartfelt themes of love
for casual gatherings
nostalgic reflections on relationships

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced excitement
seek experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified McEntire's reputation in country music after her earlier success.
Themes: small-town relationships· heartbreak narratives· late '80s country charm
Career context: Released in 1989, Reba is McEntire's third studio album, following her breakthrough with 'My Kind of Country' in 1984. By this time, she had solidified her place in country music, transitioning from regional success to national acclaim, as evidenced by her growing fanbase and increasing radio play.
Stylistic neighbors: Trisha Yearwood· Brooks & Dunn· Martina McBride