Meaning: Reba McEntire, a prominent figure in the country music industry, is known for her iconic music and storytelling abilities. The quote, "But I like to listen to demos. I like to hear the finished product. It's like listening to a song - I mean, a story. If you're going to sit here and tell me a story, I just like to listen. I don't want to make them up," provides insight into her approach to creating and experiencing music.

When Reba McEntire mentions liking to listen to demos, she is referring to the preliminary recordings of songs, often made before the final production. Demos are typically raw and unpolished, serving as a foundation for the finished product. McEntire's interest in demos demonstrates her dedication to the creative process and her willingness to engage with the evolution of a song. By expressing her fondness for demos, she reveals an appreciation for witnessing the genesis of a musical piece, highlighting the importance of understanding its progression from inception to completion.

Furthermore, McEntire's comparison of demos to a story encapsulates her belief in the narrative power of music. Much like a story, a song has the ability to convey emotions, experiences, and messages. By likening demos to stories, she emphasizes the storytelling aspect of music, indicating that even in its early stages, a song possesses the potential to captivate and resonate with its audience.

Additionally, the mention of the finished product in the quote underscores McEntire's recognition of the transformative journey a song undergoes during the recording and production process. Her eagerness to hear the final rendition of a song reflects her anticipation of witnessing its complete transformation from a demo to a polished, fully-realized piece of music. This sentiment showcases her respect for the craftsmanship and artistry involved in refining a song into its ultimate form.

Moreover, McEntire's statement, "If you're going to sit here and tell me a story, I just like to listen. I don't want to make them up," conveys her inclination towards being a receptive audience rather than a creator. This perspective highlights her preference for experiencing and immersing herself in the narratives presented to her, whether through music or storytelling, rather than actively participating in their fabrication. It signifies her appreciation for the role of a listener and her willingness to be moved by the narratives crafted by others.

In conclusion, Reba McEntire's quote offers a glimpse into her reverence for the creative process, her recognition of the storytelling essence of music, and her inclination towards being a receptive audience. Her words illuminate her deep appreciation for the evolution of a song from its initial stages to its culmination, as well as her willingness to embrace the emotive power of music as a narrative medium. With this quote, McEntire provides valuable insight into her musical ethos and her profound connection to the art of storytelling through music.