Reba McEntire – Rumor Has It: A Country Ballad of Heartache and Betrayal
In the realm of country music, Reba McEntire stands as a towering figure, her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics captivating audiences for decades. Among her vast repertoire, “Rumor Has It” holds a special place, a poignant ballad that delves into the depths of heartbreak and betrayal, all set against the backdrop of a small-town community.
Background
Released in 1990 as the title track of her album of the same name, “Rumor Has It” marked a turning point in McEntire’s career, solidifying her status as a country music icon. The song topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and reached number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing its place as one of her most enduring hits.
The song’s narrative follows a woman who has become the subject of malicious gossip, rumors spread by a jealous rival. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist’s pain and humiliation, as she grapples with the betrayal of a trusted friend and the damaging effects of small-town gossip.
McEntire’s vocals are the heart and soul of the song, her powerful voice conveying a range of emotions from anger and despair to resilience and determination. She effortlessly captures the protagonist’s inner turmoil, her voice echoing through the lyrics like a cry for justice.
The song’s chorus is particularly poignant, with McEntire’s voice soaring as she sings, “Rumor has it, she has you / Rumor has it, you love her too / Talk is cheap but the price is high / When it’s true.”
“Rumor Has It” has become a country music staple, covered by numerous artists and earning a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame. McEntire’s heartfelt rendition remains the definitive version, a testament to her songwriting prowess and her ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
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Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Bruce Burch, Vern Dant, and Larry Shell.
- It was released in 1990 as the lead single from McEntire’s album Rumor Has It.
- The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- “Rumor Has It” has been covered by numerous artists, including Trisha Yearwood, Martina McBride, and Carrie Underwood.