About The Song
Within the extensive and emotionally rich catalog of country music icon Reba McEntire, the song “What If” stands as a poignant and reflective ballad that delves into the realm of hypothetical scenarios and the lingering questions that often accompany significant life events. While there are a couple of songs with this title in Reba’s discography, the one most likely being referenced here is the heartfelt track penned by Diane Warren. This version was released as a promotional single in November 1997, coinciding with Reba’s support for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle initiative. It later saw a digital re-release in May 2020. Though not featured on a regular studio album at the time of its initial release, its emotional resonance and Reba’s powerful delivery have made it a noteworthy entry in her repertoire.
The songwriting prowess of Diane Warren is a significant element in understanding the emotional depth of “What If“. Warren is one of the most successful and prolific songwriters of our time, having penned countless hits across various genres for a multitude of artists. Her ability to tap into universal human emotions and craft lyrics that are both direct and deeply affecting is clearly evident in this ballad. “What If” showcases her talent for exploring themes of love, loss, and the introspective contemplation of alternative realities.
The production of “What If” for its 1997 release was helmed by David Malloy and Reba McEntire herself. Malloy, a seasoned producer with a long and successful career in country music, brought his expertise to the track, creating a soundscape that is both supportive of Reba’s vocals and emotionally resonant. The arrangement likely features a blend of traditional country instrumentation with a touch of contemporary balladry, allowing the focus to remain firmly on the lyrical content and Reba’s heartfelt delivery.
Reba McEntire’s vocal performance on “What If” is a prime example of her ability to connect with the listener on a deeply personal level. Her signature blend of power and vulnerability is perfectly suited to the song’s introspective nature. She navigates the lyrical questions with a palpable sense of yearning and contemplation, drawing the listener into the emotional landscape of the song. Her phrasing and delivery emphasize the weight of the “what ifs,” making the listener ponder their own life choices and the potential alternative paths they might have taken.
The lyrics of “What If” revolve around the contemplation of different outcomes and the impact of pivotal decisions in a relationship. The song poses a series of hypothetical questions, exploring the potential joys and sorrows that might have unfolded had different choices been made. Lines like, “What if I hadn’t said goodbye that night? / What if I had told you everything was right?” immediately establish a theme of regret and the longing to revisit the past with a different perspective.
The verses delve further into these “what if” scenarios, touching upon moments of potential reconciliation and the missed opportunities for deeper connection: “What if we had found a way to meet halfway? / What if we had tried just one more day?” These questions highlight the delicate balance of relationships and the often-fine line between holding on and letting go. The song captures the universal experience of looking back and wondering about the roads not taken.
The chorus serves as a central point of reflection, emphasizing the enduring nature of these unanswered questions: “What if, what if, we were meant to be? / What if, what if, you were still with me?” The repetition of “what if” underscores the persistent nature of these thoughts and the lingering sense of possibility that continues to haunt the singer. It speaks to the human tendency to ruminate on the past and to imagine alternative realities.
The bridge of the song often provides a moment of poignant realization or acceptance. In “What If,” it likely offers a reflection on the enduring impact of the choices made and the understanding that while the past cannot be changed, the lessons learned can shape the future. The overall tone of the song is one of thoughtful contemplation rather than bitter regret, suggesting a mature reflection on the complexities of love and relationships.
The 1997 release of “What If” as a charity single for The Salvation Army underscores the song’s message of hope and the potential for positive change, even in the face of past regrets. The re-release in 2020, accompanied by a new music video featuring clips of healthcare workers and caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic, further amplified the song’s message of hope and resilience in the face of uncertainty.
While “What If” might not be one of Reba McEntire’s biggest chart hits, its powerful lyrics, Warren’s masterful songwriting, and Reba’s emotionally resonant performance have made it a cherished song for many. It serves as a reminder of the weight of our choices and the enduring power of reflection, solidifying its place as a meaningful contribution to Reba McEntire’s distinguished career.