'What If': Reba McEntire’s timeless song gets an update amid the COVID-19 pandemic

Reba McEntire puts her 1997 hit, “What If,” in modern-day context with a new music video celebrating the front-line workers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Interspersed with footage from the original video, the new clip for “What If” shows a montage of health care professionals, first responders, homemade mask makers and essential workers as they work to save lives and stop the virus’s spread.

The video also shows families grappling with the pandemic and finding new ways to be together, even as the quarantine keeps them apart.

Originally written by songwriter Diane Warren, “What If” has stood the test of time, and that’s what makes it such an important song, McEntire reflected in a social media post.

“The song is as relevant today as it was 23 years ago,” she wrote on Instagram. “That’s the power of a great song and Diane Warren is no stranger to writing great songs.”

The superstar added that she hopes the song will highlight people’s compassion for each other even during this difficult time.

“Even though we may not be able to physically reach out with just one hand right now, we can still be there for each other and take care of our neighbors, essential workers and medical professionals,” McEntire wrote. “Re-releasing this song and updated video with its message of care, hope and love felt like the right thing to do. Maybe we still can change things.”