Reba McEntire Honors Brandon Blackstock in Grammys In Memoriam

Reba McEntire will keep on loving her late stepson Brandon Blackstock.

The country singer made their first-ever Grammys appearance on February 1, 2026, honoring several stars who have passed away, including a tribute to a talent manager whose father, Narvel Blackstock, was Reba McEntire’s husband for over two decades.

Being there at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles was incredible! Reba brought out Brandy Clark and Lukas Nelson, and they performed ‘Trailblazer’ in a really special way. They actually changed the lyrics to pay tribute to all the music legends we’ve lost – it was a truly moving moment.

Reba sang, naming country music legends Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, and Tammy Wynette as a photo of Brandon appeared behind her. She continued, singing about how everyone is influenced by these artists, but can never truly replace them.

Before the awards show hosted by Trevor Noah, Reba McEntire said the performance would be a cherished memory for her.

“It really is special to me, because my son is one that we’re honoring,” she told Live From TopMob: Grammys‘ Zuri Hall. “He passed away in August, and so Brandon is going to be up on the stage with Brandy, and me, and Lukas, and the two ladies playing the cello and the violin.”

She added, “It’s going to be very special.”

It’s with a heavy heart I share the news of Brandon Blackstock’s passing at just 48 years old, after a courageous battle with cancer. As many of you know, Brandon was a father to River Rose and Remy, whom he shared with Kelly Clarkson. His loss is especially felt by his family, and I was so touched by the beautiful tribute penned by his brother, Shelby Blackstock, who is only 35. Reba McEntire, who is very close to the family, shared that she thought Shelby’s words were exceptionally well-written, and I have to agree. It’s a reminder to cherish every moment with those we love.

Shelby shared on Instagram that her grandfather taught her a great deal and left behind many wonderful memories she’ll always treasure. She wrote about missing the experiences they won’t share, but knowing he’ll always be with her – in memories of their hunts and flights, and in everyday life.

He continued, saying that even though it might bother some people, he’d keep succeeding, and do things just a bit more skillfully and, frankly, look better while doing it. He finished by saying they would always cherish Brandon and continue to love, remember, and celebrate his life.

Prompting Reba to in the comments section, “Yes we will miss him so much.”

To see Reba and more stars at the 2026 Grammys, read on.