Martina McBride Reveals Her Proudest Song, Most Starstruck Moment

With 14 studio albums, over 50 singles and several years in the music industry, Martina McBrideHis discography is far-reaching – but the country star says one song stands out in his career.

“The song I’m most proud of is ‘Independence Day,'” McBride, 58, reveals exclusively in his 25 Things You Don’t Know About Me segment in the latest issue of Us Weeklyon newsstands now. “I got so many letters and heard so many personal stories about how that song touched people and changed lives.”

It was released in 1994 as the third single from his album The Way I Am“Independence Day” is now considered McBride’s signature song. The lyrics tell the story of a young girl whose mother is abused by her husband, and who finally regains her independence – on Independence Day – by being burned.

“Well you lit up the sky that Fourth of July,” McBride sings in the third verse. “When the firemen came / They just put out the flames and took down some words / They sent me to the county home / Now, I’m not saying it’s right or wrong / But maybe it’s the only way / Talk about your change / Independence Day.”

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McBride took home the CMA Song of the Year in 1995, and 20 years later, the song was certified Platinum.

Keep scrolling for more personal facts from McBride — who plays at Max’s Second Chance Phaseplaying on Thursday – including his most amazing moment:

1. I love taking people to the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. No matter how many times I’ve been, I always learn or see something new.

2. Mom’s pot roast recipe with mashed potatoes [with] Gravy is my comfort food.

3. The song I am proud of is “Independence Day.” I received so many letters and heard so many personal stories about how that song touched people and changed lives.

4. One of my favorite memories with my daughters is driving to my oldest’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 working hard, and as children, we also had chores.

6. When I go on a picnic, I always bring a good book, my reading glasses and a bottle of my Luna & Finn Rosé wine.

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 Johns: I married a John [McBride]and my celebrity crushes when I was younger John Denver again John Schneider.

9. My other job would be a farmer. I would like to have a big garden.

10. The most popular people on my phone are these Steven Tyler again Gordon Ramsay.

11. Eighties 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, he cleaned the offices once a week.

14. Any place by the water is my favorite place to visit.

15. Linda Ronstadt again Pat Benatar they were the artists I watched growing up.

16. The show I’m currently binge-watching It is decreasing.

17. I want to see the northern lights and take a trip on the Orient Express.

18. My favorite way to spend the weekend at home is cooking, gardening, reading or just laying around the house.

19. I have played with Carole King, Don Henley, James Taylor, Bob Seger, George Strait, Wynonna Judd, Peter Frampton again Smokey Robinson. I am always proud and humbled to be chosen to sing with my heroes.

20. Setting a relaxing mood goes a long way, so I like to build a fire or sit out on the back porch, pour a glass of wine and light a candle to relax. Cooking relaxes me too.

21. The app I use the most is Instagram. I’m a bit addicted.

22. My childhood memories are riding bikes with my brother, riding the tractor with my father and making lunch to my father in the field during wheat harvest.

23. As a judge in Second Chance PhaseI was amazed at how inspiring it was to hear the stories of the contestants and the courage it took to put themselves out there.

24. My most important moment was the reunion Aretha Franklin. He called my name on stage, I burst into tears. Then he asked me if I went back to his dressing room. I couldn’t believe it.

25. One of my favorite movies The Wizard of Oz. I saw again They are not badmovie, on opening night, and it was amazing!