Love and unrequited love were often at the core of the songs th at the onetime secretary turned country music star made into chart-toppers. One of the most powerful female vocalists of all time, Yearwood knew how to get every ounce of emotion into and out of a songs lyrics by way of her unique interpretive quality. Hit after hit came her way and her legions of fans relished the style and honesty. Whether lighthearted or intensely romantic, a ballad in her capable hands often became a beacon of light for the listener. And it's part of the reason why the cream of Nashville songwriters always sought her out.