Introduction
“Consider Me Gone,” released in 2009, is a powerful country ballad performed by the iconic Reba McEntire. It was the lead single from her 27th studio album, Keep On Loving You. The song, written by Steve Diamond and Marv Green, tells the story of a woman at the end of her rope in a failing relationship. It’s not a tale of quiet heartbreak, but rather a declaration of strength and self-worth.
The lyrics portray a woman who has tried everything to salvage her relationship, but her partner remains emotionally distant and unresponsive. She has reached a point where she realizes she deserves more than to be ignored and taken for granted. The chorus delivers the song’s powerful message: “If I’m not the one thing you can’t stand to lose, consider me gone.” It’s a bold statement of independence and a refusal to settle for less than she deserves. This theme of female empowerment resonated strongly with many listeners, contributing to the song’s success.
Reba McEntire’s vocal delivery adds significant emotional weight to the song. Her powerful voice conveys both the pain of the failing relationship and the strength of the woman’s decision to leave. She masterfully captures the nuances of the lyrics, making the listener feel the character’s frustration, sadness, and ultimately, her resolve.
“Consider Me Gone” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The accompanying music video, directed by Roman White, further enhances the song’s narrative. It features Reba portraying the strong woman in the song, interspersed with scenes of a couple struggling with their relationship. The video effectively captures the emotional intensity of the song and reinforces its message of self-respect and moving on.