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The Bottom Line

When it comes to tribute albums, this one is a diamond just waiting to be discovered. Barbara Mandrell was honored when she heard that several artists were interested in recording her songs in a tribute album. The result is a great trip down memory lane and will be an enjoyed addition to any collection. This tribute album is a testament to the influence she had on more than one generation of artists and the love they all share for her and her music.




Pros

• "Sleeping Single in a Double Bed" Terri Clark
• "In Times Like These" Brad Paisley
• "Years" Randy Owen

Cons

• None

Description

• Released by BNA Nashville.
• A gathering of artists paying tribute to Barbara Mandrell.
• Includes 12 tracks.

Guide Review - Various Artists - She Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool

In 1997, one of the most loved female entertainers announced her retirement. Unlike many of the artists who have retired, she has had no second thoughts and no re-occurring 'farewell' tours. She quietly stepped out of the limelight, sold all her instruments and focused on her family. Many top names in country music have joined forces for this tribute.

Kenny Chesney and Reba team up for one of the anthem's of the 80's, "I Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool." Gretchen Wilson shows off her sultry vocal skills with "The Midnight Oil." Sara Evans lends her unique sound to "Crackers." Terri Clark's choice is probably my favorite on the album with "Sleeping Single in a Double Bed." Brad Paisley covers "In Times Like These" and Alabama powerhouse Randy Owens sings "Years." Other artists who contribute are LeAnn Rimes, Willie Nelson, Shelby Lynne, Blaine Larson, Lorrie Morgan, Tanya Tucker, Dierks Bentley and Cece Winans.

Each artist lends their own soul to their song, but no matter how they are arranged, the songs will always belong to Barbara. She has always been drawn to music and could read music before she could read print. By age 11 she was known as "The Princess of the Steel" because of her skill with the steel guitar. She became the only female to win CMA Entertainer of the Year twice and starred in her own weekly variety show with sisters Irlene and Louise. "He Set My Life to Music" is a very personal song for Barbara, and is a fitting end to this great tribute.