Reba McEntire, the undisputed “Queen of Country,” made her triumphant return to RodeoHouston on Tuesday, March 4, opening this year’s concert series with a dazzling performance in front of 69,934 fans.
Marking her first appearance at the iconic Houston event in 11 years, McEntire’s performance delivered a powerful blend of timeless hits and modern surprises —notably during Women’s History Month.
Dressed in a sparkling black cowgirl outfit with silver fringes and a statement belt buckle, the 69-year-old icon radiated Western glamour as she took center stage. McEntire kicked off the night with her 2010 hit “Turn On The Radio,” immediately drawing the crowd to a roar. Her commanding stage presence and infectious energy set the tone for a night filled with nostalgia and celebration.
McEntire’s setlist wove together decades of country classics, including “One Promise Too Late,” “You Lie,” and “Maggie Creek Road.” She also paid tribute to female artists who paved the way with covers of Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” and The Supremes’ “You Keep Me Hangin’ On.” In a surprising twist, she seamlessly blended Dua Lipa’s pop hit “Don’t Start Now” into the set, proving that music knows no generational bounds.
“I’m a Survivor,” the theme song from her beloved sitcom, brought the crowd to its feet, with McEntire humbly introducing each of her band members during the performance. The emotional ballad “Back to God” and empowering anthem “Is There Life Out There” showcased McEntire’s enduring vocal prowess, while the crowd eagerly joined her in call-and-response during the rollicking “Why Haven’t I Heard From You.”
Despite turning 70 later this month, McEntire showed no signs of slowing down. She kicked and danced on the rotating stage, exuding the same charm and vitality that have made her a country music legend for more than four decades. The night culminated with a show-stopping performance of her signature hit “Fancy,” as the stage bathed in red lights and the stadium transformed into a massive karaoke bar.
McEntire’s connection to RodeoHouston runs deep, dating back to her debut in 1984 alongside Charley Pride at the Astrodome. She was inducted into the rodeo’s Star Trail of Fame in 2007, solidifying her place among legends like George Strait and Elvis Presley. Her return to the Houston stage proved that her reign as country royalty remains as strong as ever.
With a mix of classic hits, heartfelt tributes, and modern flair, McEntire’s opening night performance was a testament to the enduring power of women in country music — and the perfect kickoff to RodeoHouston 2025.
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