About the Song
Reba McEntire, the undisputed queen of country music, has a knack for weaving narratives that resonate deeply with listeners. Her voice, a powerful instrument capable of conveying both vulnerability and strength, has become synonymous with heartfelt storytelling. In 1999, she released “What Do You Say,” a song that exemplifies her ability to capture the complexities of human emotion with grace and authenticity. Penned by the talented duo Neil Thrasher and Michael Dulaney, this poignant ballad explores themes of love, loss, and the struggle to find the right words in the face of life’s most challenging moments.
“What Do You Say” opens with a gentle acoustic guitar, setting a somber yet hopeful tone. McEntire’s voice, rich and resonant, enters with a sense of quiet contemplation. The lyrics paint vivid pictures of everyday struggles: a young girl grappling with the consequences of reckless choices, an elderly woman facing the twilight of her life, a man wrestling with the weight of a broken heart. Each verse presents a unique scenario, united by the common thread of searching for solace and understanding.
What sets this song apart is its masterful exploration of the unspoken. McEntire doesn’t offer easy answers or platitudes. Instead, she delves into the raw, unfiltered emotions that accompany life’s trials. The chorus, with its simple yet profound question, “What do you say?”, encapsulates the universal struggle to find the right words when comfort is most needed. It’s a question that lingers in the air, prompting introspection and empathy.
McEntire’s delivery is nothing short of masterful. She navigates the emotional nuances of each verse with a delicate balance of restraint and passion. Her voice cracks with genuine empathy as she sings of the young girl’s remorse, and it soars with a quiet strength as she describes the elderly woman’s yearning for peace. The song builds gradually, culminating in a powerful crescendo that showcases the full range of McEntire’s vocal prowess.
“What Do You Say” is more than just a song; it’s a meditation on the human condition. It reminds us that life is a tapestry woven with joy and sorrow, hope and despair. It encourages us to listen, to empathize, and to acknowledge the power of silence when words fail us. With this timeless ballad, Reba McEntire once again proves her ability to touch the hearts and souls of listeners across generations.