This is one of Reba's best songs because she had the guts to record it, sing it live when just the topic of HIV and AIDS was, it just wasn't talked about unless you were a drug addict that shared needles, and even in the early 90s, they still thought the one of the main ways you could get it was if you were gay. She put this song out, knowing it would be taboo and piss people off, but she wanted to help educate people. She's 1 hell of a woman, singer, and humanitarian. Much love and respect @Reba
The kids today will never know how controversial this song was, how important it was, and how many radio stations refused to play Reba songs after she released this. It is still one of my favorite songs!
SCREW the RADIO STATIONS, THE "Correctness". It MASKS/COVERS/HIDES THE TRUTH. HOMOSEXUALITY IS A CURSE AND A SCOURGE. It destroys the family. TOO MANY PEOPLE ARE C O W A R D S. Speak Out.
You’re right.. They will never know! Now they have HIV/AIDS commercials with gay men in them! I’m just saying that would not have happened in 1994! I have a family member that passed from it n the poor girl suffered like a dog dying. Now we have a pill. Very sad
This woman is an icon for a reason. She recorded a song that was a huge career risk at the time because it talked about a subject most of the country, and in particular the conservative audience for country music, didn’t want to talk about or address because it was still “the gay disease”. It caused so much controversy because of its content and it would’ve been easy for her to not record it but instead she used her massive star power to bring attention to this issue. And in case anyone was trying to ignore it or pretend the song was about something else, she performed it publicly IN FRONT OF THE AIDS QUILT. As if to you say “no bitches we’re doing this whether you like it or not. Your queen commands it”. Legend.
@@AP-xq3jm A "simple one night stand" where he failed to disclose his HIV status/sexual history and transmitted to her an STD that was practically a death sentence back then. Best case scenario, he unknowingly ruined her life by accidentally transmitting the virus before he knew he had it. Worst case scenario, he lied about having HIV and slept with her anyways without giving her the option to have informed consent.
@@davidahart2476 Matthew 7:1-2 "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." - Enjoy THOSE repercussions :)
@@GAvillain Oh we aren't to hold each other accountable?? Colossians 3:16 King James Version 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Indeed. Very few if any other female country artists would have been offered this song and taken on the challenge. But when you're a giant and you have a heart like Reba, you do it because it was/is a message that needs to be conveyed. Kudos to her. I knew what it was about the first time I heard it and was very moved by the song.
@@ninamartinez5171 It is about a woman who is single and has a one night stand with a stranger. Sadly, she contracts AIDS from her tryst. She knew the name and details of all the men she'd ever been with except him...but she thinks his name was John.
@@ninamartinez5171 No one is cheating. It’s about a woman who has a one night stand with a man she met at a party, and ended up contracting & dying from HIV/AIDS. She thinks his name was John…
Nothing any female country singer has put out in the last 5 years compares to the power and audacity of this song. Singing about empowerment and taking charge of relationships doesn't compare to this line Reba drew in the sand. Country music was considered too conservative to dare to mention anything about the AIDS crisis. She blew everyone out of the water with this song.
I cannot believe how many people commented saying they didn't know this song was about HIV / AIDS!!! Are you SERIOUS?? I was a teen when this song came out and I knew immediately what it was about! I guess some people don't really "listen" to the words of a song when they hear it! Oh, well. Their loss!
Why Reba will always be the Queen of Country Music. No one else in Nashville was willing to address the AIDS crisis, even though country music was full of songs about one night stands, but Reba stepped up and made a statement: Country Music cannot and will not ignore AIDS.
This is one of her best songs and not really played much on the radio. The fact that she performed this song live with no band on stage, no voice correction, no autotune and nothing fancy really speaks of her level of talent.Flawless performance of a very well written song.
@@danroberts9050 As we all grow weary of spiritless ogres and trolls. How about maybe some people know something that you don't. Not a challenge or even a criticism. Just an observation. Anyway, have a mediocre day,as I'm sure that is a step up in your world.
@@Astro_touches_children In this case I doubt it. As a person with an outstanding life who has enjoyed many years in the entertainment business as a performer and a producer I'm sure I'm probably more knowledgeable than the "mediocre" person you've mistaken me for. Here's the good news, your passive/aggressive weak attempt at a backhanded insult is lost on me. I'm above it. But I'll make it a point to wave at you as I look down to see if my shoes are tied.
It’s hard to imagine the climate back then but this was a very brave move. Most wanted to pretend it didn’t exist or that it only affected a certain population……this was one of many step by step acts by many people to break down barriers, get the truth, find a “respite” but still not a cure…..
I saw Reba in concert when I was in high school with my departed brother. To this day I remember the AIDS quilt that was in the background, and how I was entranced by her voice. I cried during that concert. Whenever I think of my brother, I think of us at that concert. I still have the ticket stub.
I was a baby when this came out, and CMT never played it; even though I knew what it was about, the first time I heard it was 7 years ago. I believe Vince Gill was really popular at the time of its release (1994)
I AGREE!! I remember being 18 yrs old and just feeling this song!!! I thsnkfully bought the cd snd played it in my car on replay! I never knew they played it on the air! I always loved this song!!!! Still in 2019 and 44 yrs old...
The way Reba looks at the crowd, her mannerisms during certain parts of this song, not to mention her iconic voice, it's like she gave us a small part of her heart and soul in this performance, you can see her passion for getting this cautionary tale about AIDS across. One of the most amazing performances of any time or any genre of music.
The most powerful part of this song is that she was told not to sing it at the awards ceremony. She did it because what were they going to do. Then, she sang it and let those people sit in their discomfort because she knew they would never do anything because of the backlash.
So many of the women in country music have tackled the hard topics of their day - For Reba it was HIV/AIDS, for Loretta it was the "pill" and birth control - It's the women who stand up and bring these things to the forefront - Way to go ladies, we need more like you.
Exactly right. Martina McBride and Concrete Angel, is another example of exactly that. One for the guys was Jason Micheal Carroll's, Alissa Lies. I think people are afraid of speaking of such sensitive subjects as it could have a negative impact on their career.
Reba also tackled sex work/poverty (Fancy), infidelity & murder (Night the lights went out in Georgia). Great songs/stories! Martina tackled DV and child abuse. Hard topics, but oh so relevant. I love the stories these performers weave, no matter how sad they are.
No one, absolutely no one in country music today could pull off a performance like this. First off they would have to actually sing about something that matters, then of course they would need talent......its a shame what country music has become
This song still gives me goosebumps even 28 years after first hearing it... It is something so many young people don't think about... Brings tears to my eyes still.
This song and video gives me a lump in my throat and I just want to cry thinking about all the people this horrible disease has taken...I even lost my favorite uncle to it........
Her voice and the lyric of this song are haunting. When I was still doing Drag shows, I was known for my Reba. This is one that braught tears to my eyes while performing it...
I did this song the first time I preformed in drag. It was for an AIDS fundraiser. I tried to tell a story through my song choices. This was the last song.
Thanks to Reba for making this song way back then.Probaly saved lots of lives,Dont think kids today know how serious safe sex is.Only takes one time.have a friend with HIV and she has no idea who gave it to her.Love you girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I remember watching this and crying my eyes out. Even today I can't keep a dry eye. Thank you Reba for giving a voice to the reality of the A.I.D.S. crisis. You are a true humanitarian..
I havs a friend who is still here after many years. Just wish they could have discovered these medicines long before: so many precious lives one by obe by ibe. Today's young people need to understand this history.
Hello Wanda, you must have good taste in music. I guess you must be a woman with a very great sense of humor. I will like to get in touch with you. Do you mind?
Reba you've sang my life most of my life, I thank you for the songs!!!I've sang my heart and soul with every note! Want to thank you for every word, tune and love I hear in your voice! Been told by many that I was blessed with a voice as yours, greatest compliment I've ever had! I thank Jesus for you making all the way! Had reasons I couldn't pursue that career but was blessed with offers! Your my hero and dream come true!!! Thanks for all your sacrifices and hard work for all of US!!! God bless! April Pritchett
If telling people I have HIV AIDS helps save others its my moral duty. I no longer wake up sobbing i live minute by minute we all do we all die. Just not from the same thing
Back when it first came out . A lot of Country Radio wouldn't play it " To Graphic" . No one knows how grafic it is until you watch your friend's Pass . This song Put a Big spotlight on the HIV/AIDS epidemic . And I'm Thankful Reba had the Guts to do it .
blueeyedbaby210 actually she recorded this not only because of who u said, to be exact she was inspired by a little boy named Ryan White who actually got it from a blood transfusion and went through hell was kicked out of school, his mother was fired from her job because of nieve people who thought they could catch it from just breathing the same air as them. Every single day there was news people and parents and neighbors rioting in their yard looking in their windows. The Whites never got a peace of moment of silence or able to live a normal life at all. So so sad!!!
I lost my uncle to this horrible disease. That was 23 years ago now. If he had gotten sick in today's world we may still have him with us, because, while there is still no cure patients can live longer and longer. I hope to see a cure in my life time.
Yes I remember the times. I was a young man in 94 when this song came out. The disease had cut down many people in the gay community and had gone mainstream by the 90s. I had a male friend who had it really bad. He went from being diagnosed with HIV to full blown A.I.D.S. In a couple of months. He passed very quickly. It was so sad to see a friend go from happy go lucky to a shell of his former self so quickly. I am glad that getting HIV is no longer a sure death sentence. It was a hard few decades though
I cry now, but I know with medical advancement, there is hope even if you contract HIV. STILL THOUGH......medicine will never erase the fact that you have it and the stigma is still around. For those who have it, I hope you THRIVE, because you deserve to and you are loved!!!!
This song was part of a album that big name country artist did to bring awareness to the AIDS crisis here in America. Big name country artist appeared on this disc but not many people know of this album because country radio refused to play any tracks from this album. They felt the subject matter was not something they wanted on their stations.
I remember the country station here (used to be called 98 Frog FM) banned this song. They said it was to "vulgar". I think it's a beautiful song about a touchy subject. But it sends the message in a classy way.
Country Music's conservatism really hurt this song. You could sing about one night stands, cheating spouses, murder, partying, love, but don't you DARE mention AIDS or imply that it's not just 'bad' people that get it.
A very powerful song indeed. Everyone who hears it has probably had John in their lives at one time or another. These days though it does not pay to play unsafely. Remember its your life and you are in control of it. Take the few extra seconds to protect yourself. Everyone you are with, you are also with everyone they have been with for the last 10 years. Take time, protect yourself and anyone else that you might be with in the future. Its not a hard thing to do. Thank you Reba for another #1.
THANKS REBA ! I knew So Many Men, now long gone, who had no idea of "from whom" they contracted AIDS... I was lucky ! But, I knew a Man, now gone from something else, who's name was JOHN and this song tugs at my heart; THANKS REBA !
I’ve loved this song since it first came out. Reba’s voice is so powerful. It means a lot to me, especially since me I lost my friend in 1995 due to AIDS at the young age of 25. RIP Michael, we miss you! 😢❤
When this song came out, the medications used to treat AIDS were useful for little more than giving you a few more years if you were lucky. Nowadays the treatments are much better and can even allow a pregnant woman to not pass it to their child, but it is still incurable. Reba had a lot of guts doing this song... at the time people whispered or avoided the topic of AIDS and HIV. It was like talking about the boogeyman. She helped open up the conversation more in this country and remind us it wasn't just a thing gay people got.
I know my friend. I remember when AIDS was front and centre. Yes, I was too young to remember Harvey Milk, who I love to the end of my time and will see him in heaven; and Freddie Mercury..I saw him when I was 15 or so at Maple Leaf Gardens. Queen was amazing. Bohemian Rhapsody was unfuckingbelievable. Here's to you Harvey and Freddie.
@@loripatrick4652 Aids hit the scene when I was in high school. It was so terrifying, I am sure that it was at least a good portion of why a lot of people my age did not play around. And the fear has had an impact. The days of "free love" and random sex are gone...you play with the wrong person you get a death sentence. So sad.
Thankfully medications are more advanced. I Lost my beautiful 28 yr old Aunt to AIDs! My family said cancer back in 1994 when she passed.. He was her first, and her last... We were 9 yrs apart.. When this song came out I just loved it. It still brings back memories.. Rest easy my beautiful Aunt Delores.
I was in high school when this came out, I still remember what a huge shock it was for Princess Diana to hug people with AIDS. For Christ's sake, like pieces of them would fall of if you touched them or something!
Aug 2018--I remember the first time I heard this on the car radio. Didn't hear it but maybe 3 times as stations "wouldn't" play it. I'm glad that she continued to sing this in her shows.I agree that this should be played more often as a Public Service message. People still don't think so much about "responsible" sex. I can't hear this without tearing up and telling people about the song.
People just dont realize why she's the queen - putting this out in the 90's, in country music.... Insane. What a song - this is perfection. She deserves all the praise she receives.
One if my favorite Reba songs. As a neonatal nurse, so thankful that this condition is not as damning as it once was. I rarely take care of exposed babies, but when I do o pray they never seek-convert.
No matter how many times I watch this it makes me cry Reba sang with such emotion she was so brave to sing a song like this at the height of the aids situation sending love and hope always
My grandma told me her nephew died of aids in the 80s but the family told everyone he passed from cancer. Im 41 and i still have a candycane stocking and a almost 40 yr od melted candy cane that i put on my tree (a gift from him) every year. I don't remember him but my grandma loved him dearly
Having lost so many friends to this awful disease I praise Reba for this amazing song. Aids has touched so many of our lives, men, women, brothers, sisters, boyfriends, children with no choice being born into it. Amazing song that brings tears to your eyes. Aids is still here, help the fight anyway you can. Teach the young, protect your life. Dont we all have a John in our past.
I love this song and I love Reba, she has been my number one favorite female singer since I was 14 years old. I remember I got a radio/CD player for my 14th birthday and my parents bought the CD that had this song on it and I memorized the song because I listened to it over and over again. I later lost the CD and I am so glad I found this on youtube! Reba sings all of her songs with all of her heart and soul, she isn't fake and she doesn't try too hard. Love Reba!!~
As a 15 yr old living in the closet in 1994 Reba putting this song out cemented that I would be okay eventually if I came out. So at 15 in 1994 I did just that & now all these years later I'm listening to it all over again during a very difficult time in my life again. I have a feeling she will pull me out of the negativity again!! XOXOXO One of her best albums!! Start to Finish!! I have Covid & I've been unable to sleep & just listening to Reba non-stop! I hope I pull through this so we can meet one day & I can tell her thank you!!
Help my girlfriend when she was first diagnosed about 30 years ago and play the song to her I was pregnant at the time it did not care about her tears touching my body or anything all I cared about was her having a loving arm and her being my friend and she always was I miss you Teresa Rast Easy
My sister got AIDS, I wasn't afraid to touch her, or hugging her. My daughter Tanya went over to my mom to help her, she got use to Susan sneaking in and sleeping with her. RIP
I have never been to one of her shows, but each song appears to be a unique production. She sings with such emotion and body movement that she literally acts out the lyrics of the songs she sings. Consequentially, each song conveys a powerful message.
Ashley E. i was 10 when this song came out. i realized what it was about as i always was good at listening to lyrics of songs, and my school had gone a year before to see the AIDS quilt. my mom, by the lyrics, didn't know what it was about so i had to explain it to her lol.....
If I remember correctly, AIDS was taboo in Nashville before Reba recorded this song. And I gotta believe that this song inspired the Red Hot + Country album
Chad Herron ... True! I remember that some stations wouldn’t even play this song lol... so sad ... Once again Reba was a trailblazer. Love and respect her.
and thus killed the date night hopes of every John in America ;). Seriously though, this IS a serious subject, and I would love to sing this song at karaoke to remind people that this IS STILL a serious problem, along with every other STI going around... just one problem.... my husband's name is John. :) Don't worry, we are both HIV negative, both lifetime free of every sti, monogamy works people!! Been with him 21 years now, my entire adult life.
This song came out when I was a kid. I've always loved this song, but as a kid, of course, I didn't get the gravity of the song. Today, in my late 30s, I can't hear this song without dropping a tear. Reba is Amazing.
tragically beautiful gets me every time to this day reminds me of my aunt rose who got it from her husband that left 3 beautiful teenage girls orphans please dear lord let us find a cure for this indescribably evil disease please
Can you believe this is one of Reba's MANY hit songs that didn't go #1? Such great, truthful, amazing songs, and no one could send a message the way Reba could........and still can for that matter.. Now we have artists that write the same thing on every album they put out, and they have hits like it's going out of style! I bet if Reba were to re-release these songs that didn't go #1, they would definitely go #1 now. No doubt about it!
I don't know why I am here but I am glad of the fact that I have been able to see my brothers and sisters grow up and marry and have kids. I have even been able to make this far to have grand nephews and neices my very first grand nephews is now 23 he so special to me. I have 1 friend still here living all the rest are gone. The faces of many come to me all the time day and night I cry behind doors the is so deep I would never want anyone to go thru this. I have ask God thousands of times why me, why was I left here to carry so much pain to live a lonely life without anyone special to be by my side. The way I have been treated by all the other is really bad I have gotten push to the side in every area of life. The services that a person did get were pretty good, someone was always around to help you with things. You get so many papers that you have no understanding about and there was always a social worker to help you with those things and I thought that there would be someone to help me as I got older but no there is nothing all of the help that a person did get no longer here they all been taken away. At 63 life is sad and a living hell I have no one to help me with nothing at all. Most of my life is spent in a dark state of mind I have no fight left and I still do not know why I was just left here all alone. I wish someone cared some in any way I think I would be better to deal. I want to be here to see my grand nephew with kids. I miss my lover and my life and no part of it will ever be back with me. This song will live with me forever. Reba has been a part of my music life and I am so glad she made this song.
I don’t know you, but I care. As a selfish 16 year old daughter I lost my father, my best friend. At that age you don’t think of the far reaching affects of losing someone that young. I’m a lot older now and not a day goes by that I don’t miss him. He never got to walk me down the aisle, but he also never got to meet his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He would have been so proud of them. I’m sorry that you have outlived your partner but I believe you are here to bare witness to the things they couldn’t! For those of you out there that love someone that is sick, don’t be selfish, don’t push them away. Make everyone of their days count. Because you can’t get them back once they’re gone!
The wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life. Sin or happiness is for a season. Turn to the one and ONLY God, Jesus Christ and you'll never be alone. He said he'd stick closer than a brother. Said he would never leave you nor forsake you. Our thinking is not like his.
Been many years since seeing this on the awards show but never forgotten the crucial story/message. The decision to include pieces of the AIDS quilt was brilliant to express the message of the song. After the movie based on Is There Life Out There, I read Reba considered filming one based on this song. I wish she would've. Perhaps she will
@RebaMcEntire Reba is one of the most influential beautiful women inside and out that I pray one day that I will be able to shake her hand and tell her Thank You. She has done so much in achievements that goes unrecognized and for her many people and families are better. Thank You Reba for all you do, your beautiful voice, and your amazing blessed soul. I live in the Emerald City, Seattle Washington. I pray and continue to pray I will meet you one day and be able to say these words.
Hello Natalia, you must have good taste in music. I guess you must be a woman with a very great sense of humor. I will like to get in touch with you. Do you mind?
This is one of Reba's best songs because she had the guts to record it, sing it live when just the topic of HIV and AIDS was, it just wasn't talked about unless you were a drug addict that shared needles, and even in the early 90s, they still thought the one of the main ways you could get it was if you were gay. She put this song out, knowing it would be taboo and piss people off, but she wanted to help educate people. She's 1 hell of a woman, singer, and humanitarian. Much love and respect @Reba
Dam right
The kids today will never know how controversial this song was, how important it was, and how many radio stations refused to play Reba songs after she released this. It is still one of my favorite songs!
SCREW the RADIO STATIONS, THE "Correctness". It MASKS/COVERS/HIDES THE TRUTH. HOMOSEXUALITY IS A CURSE AND A SCOURGE. It destroys the family. TOO MANY PEOPLE ARE C O W A R D S. Speak Out.
You’re right.. They will never know! Now they have HIV/AIDS commercials with gay men in them! I’m just saying that would not have happened in 1994! I have a family member that passed from it n the poor girl suffered like a dog dying. Now we have a pill. Very sad
I 1st heard this at a Reba concert in Charlotte n.c. this lady gave one of the greatest concerts I've ever seen.
@@NikB331oh no! Not gay men in a commercial. Smh do you think gay people don't exist if you pretend they don't? Stop being so silly
Mine too.
This woman is an icon for a reason. She recorded a song that was a huge career risk at the time because it talked about a subject most of the country, and in particular the conservative audience for country music, didn’t want to talk about or address because it was still “the gay disease”. It caused so much controversy because of its content and it would’ve been easy for her to not record it but instead she used her massive star power to bring attention to this issue. And in case anyone was trying to ignore it or pretend the song was about something else, she performed it publicly IN FRONT OF THE AIDS QUILT. As if to you say “no bitches we’re doing this whether you like it or not. Your queen commands it”. Legend.
Here we are, still bowing to our QUEEN. This song still hits me just as hard today as it did back then.
She a unreal voice and the lyrics are so good
"But there is one." That is a chilling line, I mean it chills you to you very foundation.
The quilt.......... It still brings tears!
"Cause she let a stranger kill her hopes and her dreams."
Such a powerful and emotional line.
It truly is
@@AP-xq3jm A "simple one night stand" where he failed to disclose his HIV status/sexual history and transmitted to her an STD that was practically a death sentence back then. Best case scenario, he unknowingly ruined her life by accidentally transmitting the virus before he knew he had it. Worst case scenario, he lied about having HIV and slept with her anyways without giving her the option to have informed consent.
Sin does have it's repercussions.
@@davidahart2476 Matthew 7:1-2 "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." - Enjoy THOSE repercussions :)
@@GAvillain Oh we aren't to hold each other accountable?? Colossians 3:16
King James Version
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
We owe Reba a big thank you for recording this song. She was the ONLY one with the gravitas to get a song like this on the radio.
Indeed. Very few if any other female country artists would have been offered this song and taken on the challenge. But when you're a giant and you have a heart like Reba, you do it because it was/is a message that needs to be conveyed. Kudos to her. I knew what it was about the first time I heard it and was very moved by the song.
@@SteveErickson-e8s I wish to God almighty i knew what this song is about. She thinks his name was John ? Obviously someone was cheating?
@@ninamartinez5171 It is about a woman who is single and has a one night stand with a stranger. Sadly, she contracts AIDS from her tryst. She knew the name and details of all the men she'd ever been with except him...but she thinks his name was John.
@@ninamartinez5171 She met a hot guy named John, they had sex, and she got AIDS from him.
@@ninamartinez5171 No one is cheating. It’s about a woman who has a one night stand with a man she met at a party, and ended up contracting & dying from HIV/AIDS. She thinks his name was John…
Nothing any female country singer has put out in the last 5 years compares to the power and audacity of this song. Singing about empowerment and taking charge of relationships doesn't compare to this line Reba drew in the sand. Country music was considered too conservative to dare to mention anything about the AIDS crisis. She blew everyone out of the water with this song.
No fireworks no smoke no dancers and has full attention of the crowd. Wow just wow!
I cannot believe how many people commented saying they didn't know this song was about HIV / AIDS!!! Are you SERIOUS?? I was a teen when this song came out and I knew immediately what it was about! I guess some people don't really "listen" to the words of a song when they hear it! Oh, well. Their loss!
#metoo
i didn't know
You speak the truth ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I was a young teen when this came out. I love this song and I didn't realize it was about hiv/aids.
Someone can still “listen” to the words of a song and not get the meaning right away. Don’t bash others hun. We all hear things differently.
Why Reba will always be the Queen of Country Music. No one else in Nashville was willing to address the AIDS crisis, even though country music was full of songs about one night stands, but Reba stepped up and made a statement: Country Music cannot and will not ignore AIDS.
Hi Tiffany hope you're okay?
Such a beautiful sad song sung about a poor decision made.
@@justiceharrison5142she ain’t falling for your shenanigans.
This song took a lot of professional courage to record back then..... it's so powerful that it is just as relivent today.
Karen Veitch well yeah. She had the balls to sing a song saying “this isn’t just a ‘gay’ thing. Pay attention”
@@leenut91, Yes a human thing...
Karen Veitch , you are 100% right
@@leenut91 HUH?!
THIS SONG IS ABOUT AIDS?! 25yrs of naivete.
VideoMenu yeah. That blanket that drops down behind her is part of one of the very first AIDs quilts.
This is one of her best songs and not really played much on the radio. The fact that she performed this song live with no band on stage, no voice correction, no autotune and nothing fancy really speaks of her level of talent.Flawless performance of a very well written song.
Uggggggg! How do you know??? Were you standing at the mixer? I get so tired of posers.
@@danroberts9050 As we all grow weary of spiritless ogres and trolls. How about maybe some people know something that you don't. Not a challenge or even a criticism. Just an observation. Anyway, have a mediocre day,as I'm sure that is a step up in your world.
@@Astro_touches_children In this case I doubt it. As a person with an outstanding life who has enjoyed many years in the entertainment business as a performer and a producer I'm sure I'm probably more knowledgeable than the "mediocre" person you've mistaken me for. Here's the good news, your passive/aggressive weak attempt at a backhanded insult is lost on me. I'm above it. But I'll make it a point to wave at you as I look down to see if my shoes are tied.
@@danroberts9050 You must be the patron saint of idiots. A real zero on the left .
It’s hard to imagine the climate back then but this was a very brave move. Most wanted to pretend it didn’t exist or that it only affected a certain population……this was one of many step by step acts by many people to break down barriers, get the truth, find a “respite” but still not a cure…..
I saw Reba in concert when I was in high school with my departed brother. To this day I remember the AIDS quilt that was in the background, and how I was entranced by her voice. I cried during that concert. Whenever I think of my brother, I think of us at that concert. I still have the ticket stub.
Hi Becky hope you're okay?
This song NEVER got the airplay that it deserved... I am sure because of the subject matter, Sad too it was a beautiful haunting song
I was a baby when this came out, and CMT never played it; even though I knew what it was about, the first time I heard it was 7 years ago. I believe Vince Gill was really popular at the time of its release (1994)
I AGREE!! I remember being 18 yrs old and just feeling this song!!! I thsnkfully bought the cd snd played it in my car on replay! I never knew they played it on the air! I always loved this song!!!! Still in 2019 and 44 yrs old...
Sure didn't
I recall it playing on the radio quite often
@@paleo704 I live in the Houston TX area and it didn’t get a lot of play time here, that I recall. I heard it a few times, but nit often.
The way Reba looks at the crowd, her mannerisms during certain parts of this song, not to mention her iconic voice, it's like she gave us a small part of her heart and soul in this performance, you can see her passion for getting this cautionary tale about AIDS across. One of the most amazing performances of any time or any genre of music.
she is a true performer
@Cherry Warr no, this song was specifically about AIDS.
A powerful song love it 💞
@@MsMeme1976 Yes. Sandy Knox, one of the song's writers, was inspired to write "She Thinks His Name Was John" after losing her brother to the disease.
The most powerful part of this song is that she was told not to sing it at the awards ceremony. She did it because what were they going to do. Then, she sang it and let those people sit in their discomfort because she knew they would never do anything because of the backlash.
So many of the women in country music have tackled the hard topics of their day - For Reba it was HIV/AIDS, for Loretta it was the "pill" and birth control - It's the women who stand up and bring these things to the forefront - Way to go ladies, we need more like you.
Exactly right. Martina McBride and Concrete Angel, is another example of exactly that.
One for the guys was Jason Micheal Carroll's, Alissa Lies. I think people are afraid of speaking of such sensitive subjects as it could have a negative impact on their career.
@@JamesStreet-tp1vbwe need more to stand up against these immoral democrats that want us to accept men in women’s sports.
Reba also tackled sex work/poverty (Fancy), infidelity & murder (Night the lights went out in Georgia). Great songs/stories! Martina tackled DV and child abuse. Hard topics, but oh so relevant. I love the stories these performers weave, no matter how sad they are.
There was a one hit wonder in the early 90s talked about life after a woman gave her child up for adoption
@@elainebowman4449 anyone want to know what song I'm talking about is He would be 16 I think the singer was Michelle Wright
No one, absolutely no one in country music today could pull off a performance like this. First off they would have to actually sing about something that matters, then of course they would need talent......its a shame what country music has become
All I can say about this lady is PURE CLASS and TALENT.
This song still gives me goosebumps even 28 years after first hearing it... It is something so many young people don't think about... Brings tears to my eyes still.
Hi Peggy hope you're okay?
This song and video gives me a lump in my throat and I just want to cry thinking about all the people this horrible disease has taken...I even lost my favorite uncle to it........
Absolutely amazing.... this song should still be relevant and played accordingly
Her voice and the lyric of this song are haunting. When I was still doing Drag shows, I was known for my Reba. This is one that braught tears to my eyes while performing it...
Unrelated to the song... But with the way Reba sings, and her facial movements when she draws out notes, I bet doing Reba in drag is a delight to see.
I did this song the first time I preformed in drag. It was for an AIDS fundraiser. I tried to tell a story through my song choices. This was the last song.
Thanks to Reba for making this song way back then.Probaly saved lots of lives,Dont think kids today know how serious safe sex is.Only takes one time.have a friend with HIV and she has no idea who gave it to her.Love you girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Cindy hope you're okay?
I remember watching this and crying my eyes out. Even today I can't keep a dry eye. Thank you Reba for giving a voice to the reality of the A.I.D.S. crisis. You are a true humanitarian..
I havs a friend who is still here after many years. Just wish they could have discovered these medicines long before: so many precious lives one by obe by ibe. Today's young people need to understand this history.
I still think this song is one of her very best. It deserved more airplay than it got.
Hi how are you doing today
Hi Deb hope you're okay?
One of the most powerful performances ever. Hands down.
I wish this song had been more popular.
Hello Wanda, you must have good taste in music. I guess you must be a woman with a very great sense of humor. I will like to get in touch with you. Do you mind?
It reached #1
@@dallasbrubaker6054I'm here in 2025 a hillbilly from southern Ohio love Reba you all have a good life
So glad she performed live. Sad but beautiful song
Haunting! Those raised eye brows at 3:54 say it all ... THINK before you go and do !!!
5 minutes of pleasure isn’t worth going to hell. The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life.
It's that simple. One mistake. Life is forever changed. Thank you Reba for this public service.
Reba you've sang my life most of my life, I thank you for the songs!!!I've sang my heart and soul with every note! Want to thank you for every word, tune and love I hear in your voice! Been told by many that I was blessed with a voice as yours, greatest compliment I've ever had! I thank Jesus for you making all the way! Had reasons I couldn't pursue that career but was blessed with offers! Your my hero and dream come true!!! Thanks for all your sacrifices and hard work for all of US!!! God bless! April Pritchett
I dont have AIDS OR HIV. I do however have a STD, that has been a life changer for me. Rebas song speaks volumes to me
@@christynunes6672 Hi Christy. It's OK hon. STDs are treatable now. If you have time, let me know how you are doing. Sincerely, Lori Patrick
He did not take my dignity or self respect.
@@loripatrick4652 i have no idea who it was, I was self destructive back then. And i thought herpes wasn't curable.
If telling people I have HIV AIDS helps save others its my moral duty. I no longer wake up sobbing i live minute by minute we all do we all die. Just not from the same thing
Rebecca Carter I just came across this. I pray you are well. ❤️
Stay positive Rebecca ❤️ not everyone Judges and would accept you for you and not judge one minute. ❤️
Praying all is well with you ur not defined by ur diagnosis your defined by what you are doing when none is looking 💕 keep being you
Rebecca Carter I wish you peace and health god bless you
This is such a ballsy song to do. Major kudos to Reba for recording this
Back when it first came out . A lot of Country Radio wouldn't play it " To Graphic" . No one knows how grafic it is until you watch your friend's Pass . This song Put a Big spotlight on the HIV/AIDS epidemic . And I'm Thankful Reba had the Guts to do it .
Really? Wow, I didn't know that.
blueeyedbaby210 actually she recorded this not only because of who u said, to be exact she was inspired by a little boy named Ryan White who actually got it from a blood transfusion and went through hell was kicked out of school, his mother was fired from her job because of nieve people who thought they could catch it from just breathing the same air as them. Every single day there was news people and parents and neighbors rioting in their yard looking in their windows. The Whites never got a peace of moment of silence or able to live a normal life at all. So so sad!!!
Also Gia Carangi the first super model died from it also. She was another of Reba's inspirations on the song
I remember the first time i heard this song. I had to pull to the side of the road because i was sobbing so hard. It's a beautiful, haunting song .
Those Hopes and dreams are gone in a second, you don't get a second chance to make right what you did wrong.
I lost my uncle to this horrible disease. That was 23 years ago now. If he had gotten sick in today's world we may still have him with us, because, while there is still no cure patients can live longer and longer. I hope to see a cure in my life time.
Hi Jennifer hope you're okay?
I was driving when i first heard this...had to pull over and just cried.That i survived the wild 80's.Not all of us did😪🕊🙏
Yes I remember the times. I was a young man in 94 when this song came out. The disease had cut down many people in the gay community and had gone mainstream by the 90s. I had a male friend who had it really bad. He went from being diagnosed with HIV to full blown A.I.D.S. In a couple of months. He passed very quickly.
It was so sad to see a friend go from happy go lucky to a shell of his former self so quickly.
I am glad that getting HIV is no longer a sure death sentence. It was a hard few decades though
I cry now, but I know with medical advancement, there is hope even if you contract HIV. STILL THOUGH......medicine will never erase the fact that you have it and the stigma is still around. For those who have it, I hope you THRIVE, because you deserve to and you are loved!!!!
I was in a mall in Nashville I saw her and her son I just smiled she smiled and worked at me and we kept walking great lady
A churlish crowd. If this isn't standing ovation material I don't know what is.
Way back then? This scared the hell out of that crowd. I loved her for it. I still do.
This is scary now, she's an amazing woman for singing this.
This song was part of a album that big name country artist did to bring awareness to the AIDS crisis here in America. Big name country artist appeared on this disc but not many people know of this album because country radio refused to play any tracks from this album. They felt the subject matter was not something they wanted on their stations.
Anyone in 2024??
Me
yep
This song will never fail !! The greatest song out there
me me me
September 2024
I remember the country station here (used to be called 98 Frog FM) banned this song. They said it was to "vulgar". I think it's a beautiful song about a touchy subject. But it sends the message in a classy way.
Country Music's conservatism really hurt this song. You could sing about one night stands, cheating spouses, murder, partying, love, but don't you DARE mention AIDS or imply that it's not just 'bad' people that get it.
I grew up in Altoona PA and we had a radio station named Froggy 98. Cricket was my favorite DJ. She was on from 7p - 12:00 AM every night.
A very powerful song indeed. Everyone who hears it has probably had John in their lives at one time or another. These days though it does not pay to play unsafely. Remember its your life and you are in control of it. Take the few extra seconds to protect yourself. Everyone you are with, you are also with everyone they have been with for the last 10 years. Take time, protect yourself and anyone else that you might be with in the future. Its not a hard thing to do. Thank you Reba for another #1.
This still gives me chills.
Deidre Mimbs just a wonderful album and beautiful songs by the immortal Reba McIntyre
but I'm sure it makes a lot of people practise safe sex and reach for a condom.
This song was the one that makes me cry the most.
That's why Reba McEntire is a legend. Not just some singer.
@@angelablack7946 why?
THANKS REBA ! I knew So Many Men, now long gone, who had no idea of "from whom" they contracted AIDS... I was lucky ! But, I knew a Man, now gone from something else, who's name was JOHN and this song tugs at my heart; THANKS REBA !
I wish we could see more shots of how the audience reacted to this song. She was brave and gave zero fucks. I couldn't love it more.
Hello there Miss mee nice meeting you here
I’ve loved this song since it first came out. Reba’s voice is so powerful. It means a lot to me, especially since me I lost my friend in 1995 due to AIDS at the young age of 25.
RIP Michael, we miss you! 😢❤
Hello there Lisa nice meeting you here
When this song came out, the medications used to treat AIDS were useful for little more than giving you a few more years if you were lucky. Nowadays the treatments are much better and can even allow a pregnant woman to not pass it to their child, but it is still incurable. Reba had a lot of guts doing this song... at the time people whispered or avoided the topic of AIDS and HIV. It was like talking about the boogeyman. She helped open up the conversation more in this country and remind us it wasn't just a thing gay people got.
Cherokee Rose Rioux especially in the world of Country music! Good for her.
I know my friend. I remember when AIDS was front and centre. Yes, I was too young to remember Harvey Milk, who I love to the end of my time and will see him in heaven; and Freddie Mercury..I saw him when I was 15 or so at Maple Leaf Gardens. Queen was amazing. Bohemian Rhapsody was unfuckingbelievable. Here's to you Harvey and Freddie.
@@loripatrick4652 Aids hit the scene when I was in high school. It was so terrifying, I am sure that it was at least a good portion of why a lot of people my age did not play around. And the fear has had an impact. The days of "free love" and random sex are gone...you play with the wrong person you get a death sentence. So sad.
Thankfully medications are more advanced. I Lost my beautiful 28 yr old Aunt to AIDs! My family said cancer back in 1994 when she passed.. He was her first, and her last... We were 9 yrs apart.. When this song came out I just loved it. It still brings back memories.. Rest easy my beautiful Aunt Delores.
I was in high school when this came out, I still remember what a huge shock it was for Princess Diana to hug people with AIDS. For Christ's sake, like pieces of them would fall of if you touched them or something!
Aug 2018--I remember the first time I heard this on the car radio. Didn't hear it but maybe 3 times as stations "wouldn't" play it. I'm glad that she continued to sing this in her shows.I agree that this should be played more often as a Public Service message. People still don't think so much about "responsible" sex. I can't hear this without tearing up and telling people about the song.
People just dont realize why she's the queen - putting this out in the 90's, in country music.... Insane. What a song - this is perfection. She deserves all the praise she receives.
Reba mcintire is one of the queens of country and the lady can act
One if my favorite Reba songs. As a neonatal nurse, so thankful that this condition is not as damning as it once was. I rarely take care of exposed babies, but when I do o pray they never seek-convert.
No matter how many times I watch this it makes me cry Reba sang with such emotion she was so brave to sing a song like this at the height of the aids situation sending love and hope always
My grandma told me her nephew died of aids in the 80s but the family told everyone he passed from cancer. Im 41 and i still have a candycane stocking and a almost 40 yr od melted candy cane that i put on my tree (a gift from him) every year. I don't remember him but my grandma loved him dearly
A heart breaking story, told with so much feeling that it gets it across to the people listening, with impact. Bless you Reba, you're an angel .
Having lost so many friends to this awful disease I praise Reba for this amazing song. Aids has touched so many of our lives, men, women, brothers, sisters, boyfriends, children with no choice being born into it. Amazing song that brings tears to your eyes. Aids is still here, help the fight anyway you can. Teach the young, protect your life. Dont we all have a John in our past.
One of the first songs about HIV/AIDS. Still very Appropriate for 2019..
Reba Has NO IDEA how this song Changed my life... for the better
I love this song and I love Reba, she has been my number one favorite female singer since I was 14 years old. I remember I got a radio/CD player for my 14th birthday and my parents bought the CD that had this song on it and I memorized the song because I listened to it over and over again. I later lost the CD and I am so glad I found this on youtube! Reba sings all of her songs with all of her heart and soul, she isn't fake and she doesn't try too hard. Love Reba!!~
As a 15 yr old living in the closet in 1994 Reba putting this song out cemented that I would be okay eventually if I came out. So at 15 in 1994 I did just that & now all these years later I'm listening to it all over again during a very difficult time in my life again. I have a feeling she will pull me out of the negativity again!! XOXOXO
One of her best albums!! Start to Finish!!
I have Covid & I've been unable to sleep & just listening to Reba non-stop! I hope I pull through this so we can meet one day & I can tell her thank you!!
JESUS LOVES YOU
Are u OK ???
I’ve listed to this since I was a kid. I’ve never realized it was about AIDS. Such a powerful song that means even more to me now 😢❤
What the hell did you think it was about?? LOL
This is still, to this day Reba's best song. No contest. It's amazing.
Help my girlfriend when she was first diagnosed about 30 years ago and play the song to her I was pregnant at the time it did not care about her tears touching my body or anything all I cared about was her having a loving arm and her being my friend and she always was I miss you Teresa Rast Easy
My sister got AIDS, I wasn't afraid to touch her, or hugging her. My daughter Tanya went over to my mom to help her, she got use to Susan sneaking in and sleeping with her.
RIP
Country radio will not play this....
I have never been to one of her shows, but each song appears to be a unique production. She sings with such emotion and body movement that she literally acts out the lyrics of the songs she sings. Consequentially, each song conveys a powerful message.
She did this song the first time a long long time ago. It should be played on the radio from time to time as a PSA
Hi Debra hope you're okay?
First album I ever owned was this album.
It's funny, as a 10 year old the melody is sad, but at 31 one the lyrics hit like a train.
I am with you Ashley. For some reason this song has not received nearly as much airplay as it deserves. Such a powerful song.
MrPhil0267 it cuts deep powerful song
Same here. My uncle gave it to me when I was 10
Ashley E. i was 10 when this song came out. i realized what it was about as i always was good at listening to lyrics of songs, and my school had gone a year before to see the AIDS quilt. my mom, by the lyrics, didn't know what it was about so i had to explain it to her lol.....
mrnibblesmommy is
Love ya, Reba. ☘
Reba McEntire is so gorgeous!
I can relate to this song and I wish that I didn't.
Thank you Reba for putting the word out for the new generation maybe they won't have regrets.
Thank you for this warning godbless you
Sending you love 💜
If I remember correctly, AIDS was taboo in Nashville before Reba recorded this song. And I gotta believe that this song inspired the Red Hot + Country album
Chad Herron ... True! I remember that some stations wouldn’t even play this song lol... so sad ... Once again Reba was a trailblazer. Love and respect her.
and thus killed the date night hopes of every John in America ;). Seriously though, this IS a serious subject, and I would love to sing this song at karaoke to remind people that this IS STILL a serious problem, along with every other STI going around... just one problem.... my husband's name is John. :) Don't worry, we are both HIV negative, both lifetime free of every sti, monogamy works people!! Been with him 21 years now, my entire adult life.
congrats!
Thanks!
This song came out when I was a kid. I've always loved this song, but as a kid, of course, I didn't get the gravity of the song. Today, in my late 30s, I can't hear this song without dropping a tear. Reba is Amazing.
Hello there Katie nice meeting you here
tragically beautiful gets me every time to this day reminds me of my aunt rose who got it from her husband that left 3 beautiful teenage girls orphans
please dear lord let us find a cure for this indescribably evil disease please
Amen.
At that time it was so bold even heroic to have come out with a song like this.
I love this song but it's so sad 😭.
I love the way she tells stories
Can you believe this is one of Reba's MANY hit songs that didn't go #1? Such great, truthful, amazing songs, and no one could send a message the way Reba could........and still can for that matter.. Now we have artists that write the same thing on every album they put out, and they have hits like it's going out of style! I bet if Reba were to re-release these songs that didn't go #1, they would definitely go #1 now. No doubt about it!
Hi Annie hope you're okay?
I’m 31 and have heard this song since it came out. My mother was a massive Reba fan.
I don't know why I am here but I am glad of the fact that I have been able to see my brothers and sisters grow up and marry and have kids. I have even been able to make this far to have grand nephews and neices my very first grand nephews is now 23 he so special to me. I have 1 friend still here living all the rest are gone. The faces of many come to me all the time day and night I cry behind doors the is so deep I would never want anyone to go thru this. I have ask God thousands of times why me, why was I left here to carry so much pain to live a lonely life without anyone special to be by my side. The way I have been treated by all the other is really bad I have gotten push to the side in every area of life. The services that a person did get were pretty good, someone was always around to help you with things. You get so many papers that you have no understanding about and there was always a social worker to help you with those things and I thought that there would be someone to help me as I got older but no there is nothing all of the help that a person did get no longer here they all been taken away. At 63 life is sad and a living hell I have no one to help me with nothing at all. Most of my life is spent in a dark state of mind I have no fight left and I still do not know why I was just left here all alone. I wish someone cared some in any way I think I would be better to deal. I want to be here to see my grand nephew with kids. I miss my lover and my life and no part of it will ever be back with me. This song will live with me forever. Reba has been a part of my music life and I am so glad she made this song.
greg glen you are here to educate people and spread acceptance and love
I don’t know you, but I care. As a selfish 16 year old daughter I lost my father, my best friend. At that age you don’t think of the far reaching affects of losing someone that young. I’m a lot older now and not a day goes by that I don’t miss him. He never got to walk me down the aisle, but he also never got to meet his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He would have been so proud of them.
I’m sorry that you have outlived your partner but I believe you are here to bare witness to the things they couldn’t!
For those of you out there that love someone that is sick, don’t be selfish, don’t push them away. Make everyone of their days count. Because you can’t get them back once they’re gone!
The wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life. Sin or happiness is for a season. Turn to the one and ONLY God, Jesus Christ and you'll never be alone. He said he'd stick closer than a brother. Said he would never leave you nor forsake you. Our thinking is not like his.
Greg Glen Just know, you are loved. It may not mean doodly-squat coming from a stranger, but you are. You and I are close in age. I feel your pain.
I'm so sorry you feel alone,I'm hear if you want to talk,I will listen and respond xoxo
Been many years since seeing this on the awards show but never forgotten the crucial story/message. The decision to include pieces of the AIDS quilt was brilliant to express the message of the song. After the movie based on Is There Life Out There, I read Reba considered filming one based on this song. I wish she would've. Perhaps she will
Good lord I hope no one looks down on me for this. I am 6ft 1in tall and a guy in Texas. This songs always brings a tear to my eye.
One of the Saddest Songs I've heard.
There is nothing Reba can't do,,from singing to acting,,to just looking awesome!!!!
She spoke truth about HIV and AIDS. She put a straight woman's face on the epidemic. Very powerful.
Hell yeah
No one can express emotion in song better than Reba. Not just her voice. He expressions, her gestures, the whole package.
Hi Cheryl hope you're okay?
This song helps me cope with having Aids. It helps me to realize others have it not to feel sorry for myself.
By far, her best look, warm, beautiful and glowing!
heartbreaking , poignant, so true! too many of my friends and acquaintances are gone and they didn't have to be.
My thoughts and prayers to go to everyone who thinks his name was John. thank you Lord for keeping me safe through my years of well you know what
Smile same here...
Glory to god
All of us..amen
There has never been a female country singer with a voice like Reba. And I don't think there ever will be.....
Reba, You will always be my hero. For an American artist to sing this to kudos. I will always love you for this.
@RebaMcEntire Reba is one of the most influential beautiful women inside and out that I pray one day that I will be able to shake her hand and tell her Thank You. She has done so much in achievements that goes unrecognized and for her many people and families are better. Thank You Reba for all you do, your beautiful voice, and your amazing blessed soul.
I live in the Emerald City, Seattle Washington. I pray and continue to pray I will meet you one day and be able to say these words.
Hello there Alicia nice meeting you here
Only Reba could sing this,
Hi Kathy hope you're okay?
Sheeeeeee...thinks his name was Johhnnnnn.....hear the crowd quiet as a baby!!! Reba is my favorite country artist:)
This song is so heartbreakingly beautiful. The quiet being lowered just made me cry
Hello Natalia, you must have good taste in music. I guess you must be a woman with a very great sense of humor. I will like to get in touch with you. Do you mind?