On January 9, 1983, Reba McEntire achieved a significant milestone as her single “Can’t Even Get the Blues” reached the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, marking her first career chart-topper. This moment not only solidified McEntire’s presence in country music but also signified the beginning of an exceptionally fruitful chapter in her career.
McEntire’s journey began when she was discovered by Red Steagall while performing the national anthem at a rodeo in 1975. A year later, she signed with Mercury Records, releasing her debut single “I Don’t Want to Be a One Night Stand,” which barely made an impact on the charts, peaking at No. 88. However, she saw her first glimmers of success in 1978 with minor hits, such as “Three Sheets in the Wind” and “I’d Really Like to See You Tonight,” which reached No. 20.
As the 1980s approached, McEntire’s chart performance improved, with her first top 10 hit “(You Lift Me) Up to Heaven” and the subsequent release of “Today All Over Again,” which peaked at No. 5 in 1981. Following her top-three hit “I’m Not That Lonely Yet,” her breakthrough came with “Can’t Even Get the Blues.” Following this success, her next single “You’re the First Time I’ve Thought About Leaving” secured her second consecutive No. 1.
With these chart achievements, McEntire was not only rising to prominence but also gaining the ability to take control of her career. She had formed a robust backing band and was actively touring, which empowered her to negotiate an early exit from her contract with Mercury. Both of her chart-topping hits came from her 1982 album “Unlimited,” and the following year, she transitioned to MCA Records, where she would remain until 2009.
During her tenure with MCA, McEntire released a series of successful hits, such as “Whoever’s in New England,” “Little Rock,” and “One Promise Too Late,” accruing 11 No. 1 singles between 1984 and 1989. Over the course of her career, she has celebrated the release of 24 singles and 13 albums that topped the charts, making her an enduring figure in country music. Her incredible journey has inspired countless artists and fans, reinforcing her legacy as a true country music legend.