Introduction
“What Do You Say” is a poignant song by American country music artist Reba McEntire, released on September 14, 1999, as the lead single from her album So Good Together. Written by Michael Dulaney and Neil Thrasher, the track delves into the complexities of communication within familial relationships, highlighting moments where words often fail.
The song narrates three distinct scenarios: a father struggling to explain an adult bookstore’s signage to his young son, a mother providing silent support to her teenage daughter after a distressing experience at a party, and a family grappling with the impending loss of a loved one to terminal illness. Each verse underscores the challenges of finding the right words during pivotal moments, emphasizing the profound impact of unspoken understanding and support.
Accompanying the song, the music video directed by Deaton-Flanigen portrays a family’s journey through the mother’s battle with cancer, culminating in her passing. The visual narrative complements the song’s themes, illustrating the emotional weight of situations where words are insufficient. Notably, McEntire appears briefly in the video, marking one of the few instances in her career where she does not perform directly. The video received a nomination for a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video, highlighting its emotional resonance and storytelling prowess.
Commercially, “What Do You Say” achieved significant success, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart in January 2000. It also marked McEntire’s first crossover hit, peaking at number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it her highest-charting single on that chart to date.
The song’s blend of relatable storytelling and emotive delivery has left a lasting impact on listeners, solidifying its place in McEntire’s illustrious discography. Its exploration of delicate family dynamics and the unspoken bonds that tie loved ones together continues to resonate, making “What Do You Say” a timeless piece in country music history
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