It was an emotional night for Reba McEntire on Friday, Jan. 16, as the legendary superstar, highly recognized as the esteemed “Queen of Country,” celebrated 40 years as a Grand Ole Opry member.
McEntire joined the prestigious institution in 1986 after making her debut inside the historic circle nine years prior. In an Instagram Story posted on the night of her celebrated milestone achievement, the Oklahoma-bred star shared her enthusiasm for having reached the 40-year mark, telling the story of how her four-decade-long anniversary has brought her full circle.
“It means the world to me. I am a second-generation lover of the Grand Ole Opry. Momma and daddy brought us kids up right, listening to the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday nights on the radio,” McEntire recalled in the clip. “They were with me the first time I got to perform here on Sept. 17, 1977.”
“That was the anniversary when daddy won the Pendleton, Oregon, all-around cowboy at the rodeo, so it’s a very special day for us,” she continued. “And I was so glad they were here with me. I felt like they were with me here tonight also. I love the Grand Ole Opry.”
During the special evening,Trisha Yearwood, 61, paid tribute to McEntire, 70, delivering a powerful rendition of “How Blue” alongside Opry band member Mica Roberts. Yearwood also wrote an endearing handwritten letter to McEntire, which was read aloud, and spoke highly of her fellow country peer.
“Reba has shaped country music, and so many of us who have followed in her footsteps have been lucky enough to walk along beside her,” Yearwood said after calling McEntire “a woman who defines what it means to be a Grand Ole Opry member,” according to Music Mayhem. “It’s impossible to say how many country artists she’s inspired, and it’s not just about the music; it’s about the person she is. I’m telling you, she’s exactly who you want her to be. I’m proud to be her friend.”
Reba McEntire Also Inducted Suzy Bogguss Into the Grand Ole Opry
In addition to celebrating her 40-year milestone, McEntire received a specially-made scarf designed by Manuel Cuevas and performed a round of fan-favorite songs, including “I’m A Survivor,” “Happy’s Place,” “Back To God,” and a star-studded version of “Why Haven’t I Heard From You.” She was also on hand to welcome multi-Grammy winner Suzy Bogguss as the next inductee into the Grand Ole Opry, making the night incredibly special for everyone in the room.
“This is so special, Suzy. This family is incredible,” McEntire said. “They are loving. Everybody in this building. This stage is very important to all of us, dating many, many generations back. To be able to give you this trophy is very special to me, to everyone sitting here, and to everybody in this building watching."
Related: Country Music Icon Dolly Parton Receives Major Career Honor on Her 80th Birthday
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