Introduction
A few weeks ago, country superstar Carrie Underwood had a bucket list moment. While backstage at the Grand Ole Opry, she finally met her longtime idol, Reba McEntire.
Underwood, who has spent the last 20 years rising to the top of the country music world, has always been vocal about her admiration for McEntire. Despite two decades of a whirlwind career, the two legendary artists had never crossed paths until now.
A Meaningful First Meeting
During a recent interview, Underwood called the meeting “surreal.” Both were performing at the Opry on the same night, and as Underwood was walking down the hall, she saw McEntire.
“I think I forgot how to speak for a second,” she joked. “She was so incredibly warm and lovely. We ended up talking for about an hour.”
The conversation was especially meaningful since both singers grew up in small towns in Oklahoma. “As soon as I started talking to Reba, I felt that connection,” Underwood explained. “We traded stories of our childhoods and the way our roots have shaped who we are today.”
Underwood also noted how inspiring it was to talk to McEntire, who has successfully navigated the worlds of music, television, and Broadway. “She’s living proof that you can be authentic and push boundaries at the same time,” Underwood said. “I was taking notes in my head.”
A Full-Circle Moment
The timing of the meeting is perfect. Underwood will soon take her place on the American Idol judges’ panel, replacing Katy Perry. This brings her journey on the show full circle, from contestant to judge.
Underwood shared that McEntire’s advice was especially helpful. “Reba talked about how important it is to be generous with your time and guidance,” she said. “I want to do the same for the contestants on American Idol. It’s not just about finding a great voice; it’s about finding someone who is willing to work hard and never compromise their identity.”
Fans Are Dreaming of a Duet
The internet has been buzzing with fans’ hopes for a collaboration between the two powerhouses. When asked about a duet, Underwood’s eyes lit up. “Oh, I would absolutely love that,” she said. “I didn’t want to be too forward and ask her right then and there, but I’m putting it out there for the world to see.”
McEntire is famous for her iconic duets, and the idea of her rich storytelling tone blending with Underwood’s soaring vocals has fans dreaming up ideas, including a remake of McEntire’s classic hit, “Does He Love You.”
As Underwood continues her career as a performer, mother, and now an American Idol judge, she carries a lesson from her conversation with McEntire. “Reba reminded me to keep my heart open and my roots deep,” she said. “That’s a piece of advice I’ll carry with me wherever this wild path takes me.”