The horrific plane disaster that permanently changed the lives of Reba McEntire and her musical family occurred 32 years ago this year.
Eight of the well-known singer’s bandmates and crew members, all of whom were accomplished musicians and devoted friends, perished in a tragic accident on March 16, 1991.
McEntire expressed her thanks to those who have had such a lasting impact on the music industry on social media.
When one of the aircraft’s wings hit a boulder atop Otay Mountain, the flight from San Diego to Indiana ended in tragedy.
Reba was feeling under the weather at the time, so she stayed in the hotel with her husband Narvel and stylist while the rest of the group went on an adventure.
Chris Austin, Joey Cigainero, and the tour manager Jim Hammon all perished, in addition to Paula Kaye Evans and Terry Jackson.
In a video ode shared to Instagram, McEntire stated, “Their passion for music and their incredible stage presence continue to inspire us all.”
This presentation includes a performance tape of the group, which serves as an emotional homage to their talent and cohesion.
Reba brings up the matter at least once a year to keep the band’s memory alive.
In a 2012 interview, she discussed the incident and its immediate aftermath with Oprah Winfrey. She remembered the stressful moment: “When we got the notification, Narvel went to meet our pilot, who revealed the devastating news.”
In the early hours of the morning, Narvel returned to our hotel room bearing the dreadful news that one of the planes had crashed.I asked, “Are they all right.” He said, “I don’t think so.”
“But you’re not sure?” I insisted afterwards. He softly replied, “I don’t think so.”As we celebrate their lives, may we never forget the impact these incredible people had on Reba McEntire’s career and music history.