Entertainment

For someone so petite, even in very high heels, Martina McBride makes a huge impression. Naturally, her soaring pipes are her calling card. The woman can belt with precision and emotion.

JASON JANIK/Special Contributor

Martina McBride sang Friday night at Superpages.com Center.

But there's more at work. Ms. McBride, who headlined Friday night at Superpages.com Center, has long been a cheerleader for female empowerment. She likes singing about strong women who take chances, feel proud, correct their mistakes and walk away tall. A few hit titles say it all: "Happy Girl," "My Baby Loves Me," "If I Had Your Name" and of course "When God Fearing Women Get the Blues."

All of those got stage time, and she nailed every one. Ms. McBride makes it look so easy. The Kansas native is that rare singer with immense and effortless vocal power. "Whatever You Say," an arena ballad if ever there was one, played like pure fire. And when, after the applause, she re-lit into the song's chorus in hushed, almost a capella tones it still walloped.

Ms. McBride's very able seven-piece band backed her. Plus, the gig featured two stellar opening acts – Austin-based Jack Ingram, who put on a typically raucous performance; and Chris Young, whose upcoming second CD, Voices, beautifully showcases his stunning baritone.

But back to Martina ... a few more show highlights included her solemn, gorgeous rendition of "Help Me Make It Through the Night," the socially conscious "For These Times," the great country-pop staple "Wild Angels" and an old-school country soul take on "Lean on Me."

Some of her performance ran too late for our deadlines. She took the stage about 20 minutes later than expected. But Ms. McBride is always the consummate entertainer on the platform. She's comfortable, vibrant, personable and a vocalist to respect.

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