Reba McEntire’s 1991 hit became a career-defining anthem, a “rags to riches” tale with a twist that captivated fans. But the story of "Fancy" is more than just a song—it’s a portrait of a woman navigating hardship, ambition, and survival.
“Fancy” was featured on McEntire’s album Rumor Has It and cemented its legacy through her powerful performance and a memorable music video, released on February 11, 1991. She told Parade in 2023 that "Fancy" was a "rags to riches" story that is also about perseverance.
"It’s about a rags-to-riches way of life. Persevere, stay in there, work hard, and you’ll achieve your dreams. And I like “I’m a Survivor” for all those people who have been through hard times. I’m a survivor. I’ve been through things, and I know you have too. So, let’s help each other and be supportive, and move forward.
However, the song's lyrics, written by Bobbie Gentry ("Ode to Billie Joe"), appear leave it up to the listener to figure out Fancy's fate. Gentry recorded the song in 1969, and it peaked at No. 26 on the Country Charts, per Rolling Stone.
The main character is forced out of her life of poverty by her mother, who gives her sobering advice (per Genius), "Just be nice to the gentlemen, Fancy, and they'll be nice to you." The lyrics stated, "But the wheels of fate had started to turn. And for me, there was no way out. It wasn't very long until I knew exactly what my Mama'd been talking about."
McEntire made Gentry’s song her own, creating a music video that played out like a mini-movie, illustrating a pivotal turning point in Fancy’s life. In the video, she returns to her small town as an established movie and music star, transforming the shack she once shared with her mother into a safe haven for runaways.
The song was always a favorite of the entertainer's. She told interviewer Bobby Bones in 2021, "The first time I ever heard it, I fell in love with it because I like story songs. I'm a huge fan of Dolly Parton, Tom T. Hall, people who write story songs.'"
"Well, 'Fancy' was the first one that was really big in 1968. Later on, when I got to start recording and singing old songs, I wanted to do 'Fancy.' Jimmy Bowen wouldn't let me because it's a rags-to-riches song and probably in a very not appropriate form. She's a prostitute...Later on, when I got to record with Tony Brown, he let me record it."
Gentry always believed "Fancy" was more than a story about a girl with a checkered past who became successful. Ms. Magazine quoted the singer and songwriter, who said, "'Fancy’ is my strongest statement for women’s lib, if you really listen to it."
Reba McEntire continues to include "Fancy" in her concerts, and it remains a fan-favorite, 35 years after its release.
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