Reba McEntire’s Throwback Photo Reveals Stunning 1970s Transformation

Reba McEntire, the renowned country music star, surprised fans during an appearance on the TODAY Show with a throwback photograph from 1976 that showcased her dramatically different hairstyle. The image, which was revealed on Monday, captures McEntire in a moment from her early career, posing in front of a vibrant purple backdrop while wearing a flowing pink dress adorned with intricate floral detailing. Her hair, styled in tight curls, contrasts sharply with her current mid-length waves and signature bangs.

The photograph provides a glimpse into the fashion trends of the 1970s and highlights how McEntire has evolved over the decades. During her recent appearance, she wore a sophisticated cream-colored blazer layered over a navy turtleneck jumper, accessorized with baby-blue jewel drop earrings. Her makeup was kept natural, allowing her radiant features to shine through.

Reflecting on her past beauty choices, McEntire shared insights into her hairstyle evolution. In an interview with Glamour, she recounted her experience of getting a perm in the early 1980s. “I have natural curly hair. And so when my hair would be a little past my shoulders with a perm, it was just super tight because if you add a perm to natural curly hair, it looks angry. And it did,” she explained.

As the 1990s approached, McEntire opted for a bold haircut that she described as liberating. “I loved it. It was in ’96 or ’97 when I cut my hair off, and it was freeing,” she stated. The decision was not without hesitation, as her management and stylist initially resisted the change, arguing that her hair was a significant part of her image. “You got your big hair all jacked up to Jesus. You can’t cut your hair off,” they told her. Undeterred, McEntire insisted on the change, stating, “Well, it’ll give you something else to talk about.”

Beyond her hairstyles, McEntire’s career has been marked by significant achievements. With over 100 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, she has established herself as a prominent figure in the music industry. Her first single debuted in 1976, a pivotal year when she began to carve her own path in country music, often pushing back against her label’s attempts to steer her towards a more pop-oriented sound.

“I said, ‘I would really like things more country. I don’t want orchestra and violins. I want a steel guitar and a fiddle,'” she shared with PBS. This determination to maintain her artistic integrity has allowed her to connect deeply with her audience.

McEntire has often credited the legendary women of country music, such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Tammy Wynette, for paving the way for her success. “I did find my own way, but I went back to my teachers and saw what they did to pave the way for women in country music,” she said. This acknowledgment of her predecessors highlights the importance of mentorship and legacy in the music industry.

As McEntire continues to thrive in her career, the recent revelation of her earlier style serves as a reminder of the journey she has taken. Her story resonates with many, illustrating how personal and professional transformations can coexist. The evolution of Reba McEntire’s image is not just about hair; it reflects her growth as an artist and her commitment to authenticity in a rapidly changing industry.