Reba McEntire and Terri Clark recently paid a heartfelt visit to veterans at the Nashville VA Medical Center, showcasing the healing power of music through the nonprofit Musicians on Call. The duo, well-known for their contributions to country music, brought joy and comfort to patients as they performed and made room visits at the healthcare facility.
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At the age of 71, McEntire continues to demonstrate her commitment to philanthropy and community support. This visit was made possible by Musicians on Call, an organisation dedicated to delivering live and recorded music to patients in various healthcare settings. Accompanied by Clark, the two artists brought not just their voices but also a special Grand Ole Opry microphone, enriching the experience for those they encountered.
McEntire expressed her profound emotions following the visit, stating, “Having the opportunity to visit the VA Hospital here in Nashville, room to room, with Terri Clark and Musicians On Call was an emotional moment for me. Music is so healing, and getting to witness that firsthand was a gift to me.” The visit served as a powerful reminder of the importance of music in the healing process.
Clark, who has collaborated with Musicians on Call multiple times before, echoed McEntire’s sentiments about the significance of their work. This marks her third engagement with the organisation and her second visit to the Nashville VA Medical Center. “It’s great doing it by myself, but to see people’s faces when they see Reba walking through the door is unbelievable,” she remarked, highlighting the excitement and joy that McEntire’s presence brings to the patients.
The impact of their visit was palpable, with one patient expressing his gratitude by wiping away tears and describing the experience as “like a miracle.” He shared that McEntire holds a special place in his heart, calling her his “favourite female singer.” Such heartfelt interactions underscored the emotional connection that music can create, particularly for those who have served in the military.
In addition to their in-person visits, the artists expanded their outreach through a virtual programme, allowing them to connect with patients across the country. They reached out to facilities such as Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., and Phoenix Children’s Hospital in Arizona, ensuring their message of hope and healing was accessible to many more individuals in need.
Katy Epley, the Chief Operating Officer of Musicians on Call, remarked on the significance of McEntire’s presence during these visits. “Walking around the hospital with Reba was like walking around with… well, there really just isn’t anything to compare it to. Everything about Reba exudes warmth and joy, and there was a comfort about her presence in those hospital rooms,” Epley noted. She emphasised the importance of such engagements, expressing gratitude for McEntire and Clark’s dedication to bringing comfort to veterans.
Looking ahead, McEntire is set to be honoured at the upcoming Music Heals Live! Celebration, scheduled for May 20 in Nashville. This event will recognise her contributions to music and humanitarian efforts, including the presentation of the Music Heals Golden Ukulele. The celebration will also feature performances from other notable artists, including Vince Gill, Garth Brooks, and Trisha Yearwood, making it a star-studded occasion to celebrate the healing power of music.
As McEntire continues to inspire through her philanthropic efforts, her visit to the Nashville VA Medical Center serves as a powerful testament to the transformative nature of music. The combined efforts of McEntire, Clark, and Musicians on Call highlight the profound effect artistry can have on individuals facing challenging circumstances, reminding us all of the unifying strength of music.