Martina McBride.
Manny Karabell/Getty ImagesWith 14 studio albums, over 50 singles and several decades in the music industry, Martina McBrideHer discography is far-reaching — but the country star says one song stands out in her career.
“The song I'm most proud of is 'Independence Day,'” McBride, 58, exclusively revealed in her 25 Things You Don't Know About Me featurette. The latest issue of Us Weeklyon newsstands now. “I received so many messages and heard so many personal stories about how that song touched people and changed their lives.”
It was released in 1994 as the third single from her album The way I am“Independence Day” is now considered McBride's signature song. The lyrics tell the story from the point of view of a young girl whose mother suffers domestic violence at the hands of her husband, and who finally regains her independence – on Independence Day – through arson.
“Well, the sky lit up on the Fourth of July,” McBride sings in the third verse. “By the time the firemen come / They just put out the flames and take some names / And send me to the county house / Now, I ain't sayin' that's right or that's wrong / But maybe that's the only way / Talk about your revolution / It's Independence Day.”
With 60 top 10 hits, a slew of prestigious awards and plenty of hard-earned wisdom under her big belt, Reba McEntire is having a big moment. She is angry with her partner of more than four years, actor Rex Lane. She's a huge mentor on The Voice. This month, it returns victorious (…)
McBride won a CMA Award for Song of the Year in 1995, and 20 years later, the song was certified platinum.
Keep scrolling for more personal facts from McBride — who stars as Max's Second chance stagewhich airs Thursday — including her most shining moments:
1. I love taking people to the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. No matter how many times I visit, I always learn or see something new.
2. My mother's recipe for roasted potatoes with mashed potatoes (with) gravy is my favorite meal.
3. The song I'm most proud of is “Independence Day.” I received so many messages and heard so many personal stories about how that song touched people and changed their lives.
4. One of my favorite memories with my daughters is riding in the car to my oldest son's wedding while listening to music and laughing.
5. Growing up on a dairy farm gave me a strong work ethic. I saw my parents and grandparents doing hard work, and as children, we had household chores too.
6. If I go on a hike, I always bring a good book, reading glasses and a bottle of Luna & Finn Rosé.
7. My first car was a 1975 Dodge Dart. I bought it from my sister for $250.
8. I've always had a thing for Jones: I married A.J John (McBride), and I used to like celebrities when I was young John Denver and John Schneider.
9. My alternative career would be a farmer. I like to have a huge garden.
10. The most popular people on my phone are Steven Tyler and Gordon Ramsay.
11. 80s rock songs always bring back the best memories.
12. English and creative writing were my best subjects.
13. Technically, my first job, besides (making) music, was cleaning offices once a week.
14. Anywhere by the water is my favorite place to vacation.
15. Linda Ronstadt and Pat Benatar They were the musicians I looked up to growing up.
16. The show I'm watching now is Shrink.
17. I want to see the northern lights and take a trip on the Orient Express.
18. My favorite way to spend the weekend is at home, cooking, gardening, reading, or just wandering around the house.
19. I have performed with Carole King, Don Henley, James Taylor, Bob Victory, George Strait, Wynonna Judd, Peter Frampton and Smokey Robinson. I am always proud and humbled to have been chosen to sing with my heroes.
20. Creating a relaxing mood goes a long way, so I like to build a fire or sit outside on the back porch, pour a glass of wine and light a candle to relax. Cooking also relaxes me.
21. The app I use the most is Instagram. I'm a little addicted.
22. My fondest childhood memories are riding bicycles with my brother, riding the tractor with my father and preparing lunch to take to my father in the field during the wheat harvest.
23. As a judge over Second chance stageI was surprised by how inspiring it was to hear the contestants' stories and the courage it took to put themselves out there.
24. The moment that amazed me most was the meeting Aretha Franklin. She mentioned my name from the stage, and I burst into tears. Then she asked me if I would come back to her dressing room. I couldn't believe it.
25. One of my favorite movies is Wizard of Oz. I saw too evilThe movie was on opening night and it was amazing!
