Reba McEntire might be one of the biggest names in country music today, but she never forgets the legends who inspired her journey. During the Grand Ole Opry’s 100-year celebration in March 2025, Reba took a heartfelt moment to honor two of her biggest heroes — Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn.
As Today reported, Reba spoke lovingly about both women before performing some of their most iconic songs. Later, on April 14, she shared a special video from that night — her powerful performance of Loretta Lynn’s “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” — in honor of what would have been Loretta’s 93rd birthday.
“Happy heavenly birthday to my friend and country music trailblazer,” Reba wrote in the caption, tagging Loretta’s official Instagram page. Fans flooded the comments with love, heart emojis, and their own birthday wishes for the late legend. Loretta, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 90, clearly continues to touch hearts everywhere.
A Connection That Started in Childhood
Reba’s admiration for Loretta goes way back — all the way to when she was just 11 years old. In a 2016 interview with Big Machine Label Group, Reba recalled being a wide-eyed little girl when Loretta performed at a rodeo in Oklahoma.
“That’s the first time I actually met her,” Reba shared. “I whipped off my belt for her to sign, and man, I wish I still had that belt. I love Loretta Lynn.”
A close friend later told Closer Weekly that Loretta was everything Reba aspired to be — “confident, talented, nobody’s fool, and a woman who stood up for herself in her songs.” Over the years, Loretta became not just an inspiration but also a mentor, helping guide Reba through the ups and downs of the country music world.
Saying Goodbye to a Legend
When Loretta passed away on October 4, 2022, Reba was among the many artists who poured their hearts out in tribute. She shared a touching post on Instagram featuring a sweet photo of the two of them together.
Reba wrote that Loretta reminded her of her own mother — not only because they were close in age, but because both women were strong, honest, and unshakably kind.
“I sure appreciate her paving the rough and rocky road for all us girl singers,” Reba wrote.
It was a message that summed up everything Loretta Lynn stood for — courage, compassion, and the strength to open doors for others. And as Reba’s emotional performance at the Opry proved, that legacy is still shining bright.
