Why Reba McEntire Initially ‘Dreaded’ Doing The Voice — and Actually Passed on the Show Years Before Joining

Why Reba McEntire Initially ‘Dreaded’ Doing The Voice — and Actually Passed on the Show Years Before Joining

Reba McEntire, the legendary country music artist, has opened up about her early apprehensions regarding her stint on NBC’s renowned singing competition, “The Voice.” In a candid interview with Seth Meyers, McEntire confessed that she initially dreaded taking on the role of a coach, primarily due to her concern about delivering negative feedback to contestants. This perspective might seem surprising, given her extensive career in the spotlight, but her honesty speaks volumes about her empathetic nature.

Past Concerns

Before McEntire transitioned into her coaching role, she had previously turned down opportunities to join “The Voice” when it first originated from the Dutch format. Her primary hesitation stemmed from the emotional burden she felt when it came to potentially discouraging participants. She shared her internal conflict, stating, “I can’t tell somebody, you know, don’t give up your day job.” Her fear of hurting someone’s feelings and dampening their ambitions clearly influenced her initial decision to stay away from the show, illustrating a rare vulnerability for someone of her stature.

Positive Coaching Experience

However, McEntire’s outlook shifted dramatically as she took on a different role during her time on the show. Initially serving as a part-time advisor, she quickly realized that the format of “The Voice” allowed for encouragement rather than criticism. “We’re nice people. We encourage. We lift up,” she affirmed, emphasizing the supportive environment fostered among the coaches. Collaborating with fellow mentors such as Snoop Dogg, Michael Bublé, and Niall Horan, she discovered that the competition is more about uplifting the talents of aspiring artists than throwing them into a harsh spotlight.

Continued Commitment

After ultimately accepting a full-time coaching role in season 24, McEntire has confirmed her return for the upcoming season 28. This decision not only marks a significant career evolution for her but also symbolizes her commitment to nurturing new talent in the music industry. Reflecting on her own 50-year-long career, McEntire feels immense gratitude for those who helped support her journey, including the legendary artists who paved the way for women in country music. Her longevity in the industry stands as a testament to her talent and resilience.

In addition to her invaluable coaching contributions, McEntire remains active in music production. She recently released a new single titled “Trailblazer,” featuring collaborations with Miranda Lambert and Lainey Wilson. This new project showcases her ongoing influence and creative spirit, ensuring that her impact on the country music scene continues to resonate with fans and artists alike.

Reba’s candid insights into both her journey on “The Voice” and her remarkable career thus far not only enrich her legacy in the music industry but also strengthen her connection with fans old and new. As she moves forward, it’s clear that she will continue to inspire aspiring singers while embracing the joys and challenges that come with her role as a coach.