Introduction
“It’s Gotta Be Love” is a track from Reba McEntire’s second studio album, Out of a Dream, released on August 27, 1979, by Mercury Records.
The song was written by Terry Skinner and J.L. Wallace, contributing to the album’s blend of traditional country sounds that showcased McEntire’s emerging talent in the genre.
Recorded on February 7, 1979, at Woodland and Sound Stage Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, the track features contributions from notable musicians, including Hargus “Pig” Robbins on piano and Pete Wade on guitar. The production, led by Jerry Kennedy, aimed to highlight McEntire’s vocal strengths, setting the stage for her future success in country music.
While “It’s Gotta Be Love” was not released as a single, it remains a notable part of McEntire’s early discography. The album itself included singles like “Last Night, Ev’ry Night” and a cover of “Sweet Dreams,” which became her first top 20 hit. These tracks played a significant role in establishing McEntire’s presence in the country music scene.
“It’s Gotta Be Love” exemplifies the traditional country style prevalent in McEntire’s early work, reflecting the musical trends of the late 1970s. The song’s lyrics and melody align with the themes of love and emotion that are characteristic of the genre, offering listeners insight into McEntire’s artistic development during this period.
For those interested in exploring Reba McEntire’s early music, “It’s Gotta Be Love” is available for listening on various platforms, including Spotify.
Additionally, an audio version is accessible on YouTube.
This track provides a glimpse into the foundational years of McEntire’s career, highlighting the traditional country roots that would evolve as she became one of the genre’s most influential artists.
You can listen to “It’s Gotta Be Love” here:
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