Reba McEntire and Darius Rucker Deliver Moving ‘In the Ghetto’ Tribute to Mac Davis at CMA Awards

During the 54th Annual CMA Awards in November 2020, Reba McEntire and Darius Rucker came together for a tribute that touched the hearts of everyone in attendance. Their emotional performance of “In the Ghetto” honored the late Mac Davis, the legendary songwriter behind the iconic track.

Originally written by Davis and popularized by Elvis Presley in 1969, the song paints a poignant picture of poverty and social struggle in urban America. Reba and Darius brought a renewed depth to the piece, delivering a performance that was both timeless and deeply relevant. Their rendition served as a moving reminder of Davis’s enduring impact on country and pop music alike.

A TRIBUTE THAT CONNECTED PAST AND PRESENT
With a simple stage design and timeless grace, Reba McEntire and Darius Rucker stood at the heart of the CMA Awards spotlight, letting their voices carry the emotional weight of “In the Ghetto.” Their soulful delivery gave the classic song renewed depth, honoring its legacy while adding their own personal touch.

Reba McEntire, often hailed as country music royalty, has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning more than 40 years. Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, in 1955, she began singing with her family band, the Singing McEntires, before signing with PolyGram/Mercury Records in 1975. Over the decades, Reba has earned numerous chart-toppers, industry accolades, and television success with her hit sitcom Reba (2001–2007).

Her duet partner, Darius Rucker, has carved out a unique path in music history. Born in 1966 in Charleston, South Carolina, Rucker first rose to fame as the frontman of Hootie & the Blowfish, whose debut album Cracked Rear View became one of the best-selling albums of all time. In 2008, he successfully transitioned to country music, building a solo career marked by multiple No. 1 singles and widespread acclaim.

MORE THAN A DUET — A STATEMENT ON TODAY
The decision to perform “In the Ghetto” carried special meaning in the context of 2020’s social and political climate. As conversations around inequality and systemic challenges intensified, the song’s powerful lyrics found new relevance. McEntire and Rucker used the moment not only to honor Mac Davis but to reflect on ongoing societal struggles.

Their understated performance created space for reflection and empathy, reminding viewers that music can both entertain and provoke meaningful thought.

BEYOND THE STAGE — A LEGACY CONTINUED
Following their moving live performance, a studio version of “In the Ghetto” was released across streaming platforms. The release helped extend the message beyond the award show audience, introducing a new generation to the enduring words of Mac Davis — and reaffirming music’s ability to inspire change and connection.

A LEGACY THAT LIVES ON

Since that performance, both artists have continued to evolve and expand their careers.

• Reba McEntire has successfully launched her own clothing line and restaurant ventures, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.

• Darius Rucker has been working on new music that fuses his rock roots with country soul, proving that great artistry knows no genre limits.

Their CMA Awards duet serves as a reminder of country music’s deep roots — and its potential to drive important conversations. It’s not just a moment fans will remember, but a benchmark for how music can move people and change perspectives.

LISTEN AGAIN: ‘IN THE GHETTO’ BY REBA MCENTIRE & DARIUS RUCKER

Available now on Spotify, Apple Music, and all major streaming services.