Susie McEntire’s smile is a genuine one -- and a familiar one. With more than a passing physical resemblance to her sister, Reba McEntire, Susie also shares her big sister’s musical giftings. But Susie has directed her talents to the country gospel side of American Roots music garnering much acclaim from her peers and fans alike. In addition to numerous awards and nominations from TNN, GMA, and CCMA, Susie has been named “Artist of the Year” several times in the field of Positive Country Music. She has also scored four 1 singles on the Positive Country radio charts. However, more than her notoriety, it is Susie’s kindness and determination in the midst of difficulties and her genuine compassion for others that inspires people around her.
Susie often reflects about her early Christian experiences in her concerts, combining her wealth of songs (13 CDs to date) with inspiring life stories. “The person who influenced me the most for Christ was my Grandma Smith who babysat me while my siblings went to school. It was through her influence that I recognized what Christianity was all about – not all about going to church – it was about Him living His life through me,” she says.
Raised on an Oklahoma ranch, Susie began singing as a teenager with her siblings, Pake and Reba, as the “Singing McEntires.” In 1980, after graduating from Oklahoma State University, Susie was again singing with her sister who, by this time, had become a country superstar. In addition to performing concerts for sold-out crowds, they made television appearances on programs such as “The Johnny Carson Show,” “Hee Haw,” and “The Grand Ole Opry.” Susie says, “I learned so much in this short period of time – little did I know that this travel time with Reba would help to prepare me for my own solo career in music.”
In 1984, Susie submitted to God’s calling in her life to sing Christian music, and in the years to follow traveled the country with her husband Paul and 3 children. But the abuse that had already plagued them earlier in their marriage wouldn’t quit – no matter how much counseling they had.
After two separations and now divorce, Susie is a mom with three adult children. "After 25 years of marriage, I could not continue to be in a situation of verbal and mental abuse and remain healthy. I had to make a choice to do what was best for me and my children,” Susie shares.
With a clear head, renewed joy, and a peace she hasn’t felt in years, Susie says she feels more energetic and positive about her music than ever before. AND she has been able to embark on a dream she’s had for years: she is co-host of “Cowboy Church” on RFDtv. (Dish, Direct tv, and Comcast) “My family has been in the ranching/rodeo world for four generations, and I am so pleased to be able to bring Jesus Christ to this audience in a down to earth, country style.”
Susie is in the process of recording a new album to be released at year end, produced by Billy Aerts. The yet to be titled album will include a song Susie co-wrote with her niece Autumn McEntire, "Sticks and Stones".
Susie’s music catalog is not just a collection of inspiring songs, it has become her life story. "Looking back now, with 20/20 vision, I can clearly see God’s hand of guidance through all of the difficult moments in my life. By sharing my story, I hope it will help someone else find their way through whatever they may be facing. I can think of no greater purpose for my music than that.”
Susie has recently signed on to be a spokesperson for the Community Learning Council, Inc. based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. CLC is a non-profit organization that focuses on education to help prevent and stop domestic violence.
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Hello my hero;♥ Oh my gosh.♥ I got "Let Go" for Christmas!! And I freaked out! It was my favorite Christmas gift ever.♥ I haven't stopped playing it. And I already know all the words to every song and it's been two days! I absolutely love "Sticks and Stones" and I bet if you release that as a single, it would go to #10 AT LEAST; probably #1. I can't help myself from singing along to it. I have "The Everlasting Hills of Oklahoma" and "Help Is On The Way" stuck in my head. And I am absolutely enjoying it. (: This has to be one of your best albums. I absolutely love it. I hope you had a completely awesome Christmas. Your default picture is gorgeous.♥ Congrats to you and Mark on your new marriage. Love you Susie; Did I ever say you're my hero? It must have slipped my mind.♥ Love; Linda.♥
Nathan and I are so happy for you Susie. We hope to have the privilege of meeting Mark as we did you this past summer. What a wonderful time that was. God bless you and Mark.
I love "When The Real Love Starts"; I saw your performance on Music City Tonight! You had big hair back in the day; very big hair. Good to see you toned it down (: I'm trying to get all your albums; it's sorta difficult since I'm 14 and don't have a credit card. But whatever; I'll push my Mama's buttons until she says yes! (: Because you're my hero.♥
Hi Susie , Your beautiful version of 'The Real Star Of Bethlehem' was played today on Jackie Storrar's festive Country Café Show on CMR Nashville . Lovely show. Jackie recently won a Top Award. She won an Award of Excellence for her show on CMR Nashville. The Country Café won Best Radio Production at this year's Creative Fife Awards in Scotland. Many thanks to Jackie for playing your music x Greetings & Love For The Season from England x
Just dropping by to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I am looking forward to the release of my CD Feb 2010, being produced by Spotlight Records. If you need any last minute gift ideas or stocking stuffers go to http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/toddberry download singles or a 4 song CD for $6.00. If you haven’t heard my songs yet please come by to listen. You can also call your local radio stations to request any of them….
Hi Susie Lovely myspace pic looks like congrats are in order. I was thrilled that Joe Fish on BBC Radio Lancashire played you again on Sunday choosing 'Never Alone' and asking his listeners to pay particular attention to the words and to help those who find themselves on their own at Christmas. http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/lancashire/hi/tv_and_radio/newsid_8126000/8126039.stm