Reba McEntire has revisited one of the most painful moments of her long career with an emotional look back at the 1991 plane crash that killed eight members of her band and crew. The accident, which occurred shortly after a concert in San Diego, left McEntire devastated and uncertain about her ability to perform again.
In a recent interview with Garden & Gun, McEntire shared how the support of her fellow country music stars helped her begin to heal. Among those who reached out was Dolly Parton, who offered Reba the use of her own band so she could continue performing during a difficult period. Parton’s generosity made a lasting impression on McEntire, who described it as a gift at a time when so many hearts were broken. Country star Vince Gill also offered encouragement and support, reassuring her that she was not alone.
The tragedy led McEntire to create the album For My Broken Heart, released eight months after the crash and dedicated to the musicians and crew members she lost. The record became her best‑selling album, marked by songs that resonated with her grief and resilience. McEntire continues to honor the memory of those lost, most recently on the 33rd anniversary of the crash with a heartfelt social media tribute quoting lyrics from the album.
Through the years, McEntire has acknowledged that the experience reshaped her life and career, reinforcing the importance of community and friendship in country music, exemplified by Parton and Gill’s gestures of support.