Reba McEntire Makes GRAMMY History With Emotional In Memoriam Performance

For the first time in her four-decade career, Reba McEntire took the GRAMMY Awards stage as a performer—delivering a moment that transformed the ceremony’s In Memoriam segment into a powerful, heart-stopping goodbye.

During Sunday night’s 68th GRAMMY Awards, Reba was joined by Brandy Clark and Lukas Nelson to honor artists, musicians, and industry icons who passed away over the last year. Though Reba has earned 18 GRAMMY nominations and three wins throughout her career, this marked her first-ever live GRAMMY performance—making the moment all the more historic.

A Song Chosen With Purpose

The trio performed “Trailblazer,” a moving song released in early 2025 by Reba alongside Lainey Wilson and Miranda Lambert. Written by Wilson, Lambert, and Brandy Clark, the song was created as a tribute to the women who paved the way in country music.

Ahead of the broadcast, Reba explained that the song’s message made it a natural choice for the In Memoriam segment. With slight lyrical changes, added strings, and an oboe arrangement, the performance was tailored specifically for the occasion—bringing an added layer of intimacy and reverence.

Honoring Those We Lost

The In Memoriam segment paid tribute to numerous influential figures, including songwriter Brett James, country icon Jeannie Seely, Beach Boys co-founder Brian Wilson, The Mavericks’ Raul Malo, KISS guitarist Ace Frehley, pop legend Connie Francis, and many others whose contributions shaped music history.

One of the most emotional moments came as Reba honored Brandon Blackstock, the late son of her former husband Narvel Blackstock, who passed away in August at age 48 following a battle with cancer. Reba shared before the ceremony that the performance held deep personal meaning, knowing her son would be among those remembered.

A Night of Powerful Tributes

The GRAMMYs also featured several additional tribute performances. Post Malone led an all-star salute to Ozzy Osbourne, who died in July 2025 at age 76, joined by members of Guns N’ Roses and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Lauryn Hill delivered a solo tribute honoring Roberta Flack and D’Angelo, celebrating their enduring influence and artistry.

@bootsandhearts Can someone pass me a tissue? Thanks 🥲 #bootsandhearts #musicfestival #rebamcentire #grammys #inmemoriam ♬ original sound – Boots and Hearts

A Defining GRAMMY Moment

Reba McEntire’s In Memoriam performance stood out as one of the most poignant moments of the night—uniting legacy, loss, and gratitude in a single performance. By stepping onto the GRAMMY stage for the first time as a performer, Reba delivered more than a song; she offered a farewell that resonated across generations.

It was not just a tribute—it was a moment of remembrance that will be remembered as one of the most emotional GRAMMY performances in recent history.