Reba's Nashville Lifestyles' September cover photo is by Russ Harrington.
With 32 prior albums to her credit, the launch of Reba’s latest album has caused quite a stir for music critics and fans alike. With one single, “Strange,” already climbing the charts, there’s no doubt others from her first solo studio album in six years, Keep on Loving You, are sure to follow. In a recent chat just before the album was released, at her Starstruck Entertainment headquarters on Music Row, I found out a bit about the music, as well as all the other things going on with Reba right now. While spending time in Tennessee with her manager and husband of 20 years, Narvel Blackstock, and their family after long stints in L.A., she took the time to share with our readers everything she was excited about—her friends and neighbors in Nashville.
Along with an album launch from such a superstar comes quite a buzz, and no one is more excited about this one that the singer herself. Reba describes it as an eclectic collection of bluegrass, love songs and a few that are “just plain fun and sassy” that she particularly likes. When I asked her to pick a favorite from the 13 songs, she wouldn’t choose. “I like them all, because they’re so different. No two are alike—some have attitude and others are soulful. Each one has a special meaning.”
One question that’s been raised in music circles is how someone with such a long career can continue to make history with yet another record-setting or award-winning album. “There’s a curiosity that goes along with this project about whether or not I can still pull of a chart-toping record with so much new talent out there,” she admits. “I’m just hoping that people buy the music because they believe that I can, and have. Narvel says it’s the best record yet.”
That’s a pretty strong compliment considering Reba’s been honored with every imaginable award in the business, as well as earned credits such as being named Billboard’s Woman of the Year in 2007 for her talent and influence in music. The ultimate entertainer, Reba already has a stream of tour dates lined up, so she can promote and share her new songs while also bringing familiar favorites to her long-time loyal fans.
“It’s crazy, but there are always familiar faces in the crowd, with some that have attended my show over and over,” she says. “My question is always why they seem to come back for more, but really, I’m just glad that they keep coming and don’t get bored.”
With the taping of her popular television series complete, she looks forward to spending more time at home in Tennessee. When she’s here, Reba spends most of her time at their lakeside retreat, but she and Narvel also enjoy a number of popular haunts. Favorite restaurants include Germantown Café, Midtown Café for lunch and Watermark. She also really likes browsing the stores at The Mall at Green Hills and visits to the Country Music Hall of Fame. “What I really enjoy most about being here are the historic parts of the city that have meaning for me. That, and how beautiful it is,” she says with a smile ...
For even more of our exclusive interview with Reba, pick up a copy of the September issue of Nashville Lifestyles or subscribe HERE!