About The Song
In the illustrious career of Reba McEntire, Consider Me Gone, released in August 2009, stands as a powerful anthem of self-assertion and liberation. Featured as the lead single from her album Keep On Loving You, this song—written by Steve Diamond and Marv Green—marked a triumphant milestone, becoming Reba’s 24th No. 1 hit on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart in February 2010. For those who cherish country music’s ability to blend emotional depth with unyielding strength, this track is a bold declaration, evoking memories of personal reinvention and the courage to move forward. Its soaring melody and Reba’s commanding vocals resonate deeply with mature listeners, who may recall its radio dominance or its heartfelt music video capturing a woman reclaiming her independence.
The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar, quickly building into a dynamic arrangement that showcases Reba’s vocal prowess. Produced by Mark Bright and Reba herself, the track features a polished blend of country and pop sensibilities, with Dann Huff’s electric guitar and Ilya Toshinsky’s banjo adding texture to the driving rhythm of Chris McHugh’s drums. Reba’s voice, rich with conviction, delivers the lyrics with a mix of resolve and vulnerability, striking a chord from the first line: “Every time I turn the conversation to something deeper than the weather.” For those who tuned in during its 21-week chart run or saw its video on CMT, it’s a nostalgic reminder of Reba’s enduring relevance in a new decade.
Lyrically, Consider Me Gone is a masterclass in asserting one’s worth. The narrator confronts a stagnant relationship, demanding honesty and change: “If I’m not the one thing you can’t stand to lose / If I’m not that arrow to the heart of you / If you don’t get drunk on my kiss / Then consider me gone.” These lines, as Taste of Country noted, capture a universal sentiment of refusing to settle for less, resonating with listeners who’ve faced crossroads in love or life. For older audiences, who may have navigated their own moments of standing up or walking away, the song’s message of empowerment feels both timeless and invigorating, delivered with Reba’s signature blend of grace and grit.
Musically, the track is a testament to Reba’s ability to evolve while staying true to her country roots. The arrangement builds to a soaring chorus, with layered backing vocals and a fiddle flourish from Jonathan Yudkin, creating an anthemic feel that invites singalongs. The music video, directed by Trey Fanjoy, complements the song’s narrative, depicting Reba shedding the weight of a loveless marriage and stepping into a brighter future, a visual Billboard praised in 2009 for its “elegant storytelling.” Its chart success—Reba’s longest-running No. 1 at four weeks, per Country Now—and its platinum certification underscore its widespread appeal, further cemented by live performances at events like the 2009 CMA Awards.
For fans who’ve followed Reba’s journey—from her 1970s debut to her multifaceted career as a singer, actress, and The Voice coach—this song is a cornerstone of her later work, showcasing her ability to connect across generations. Whether you first heard Consider Me Gone on a car radio or stream it today, it invites you to stand tall and embrace your own strength. It’s a reminder that country music, at its core, is about honoring one’s truth, offering a melody that empowers and uplifts, no matter where life’s path leads.