When I Call Your Name

Though it announced Vince Gill's arrival as a major solo artist, WHEN I CALL YOUR NAME, the Oklahoma native's 1989 debut for MCA, was hardly the beginning of his career. With a reputation as both proficient guitarist and singer, Gill performed with many country acts (including Pure Prairie League and Rodney Crowell) and recorded several albums prior to this release. Still, Gill's earnest, charming persona found a perfect match in laid-back, pop-inflected tunes such as the gorgeous title track (featuring Patty Loveless) and the aching "Never Knew Lonely." WHEN I CALL YOUR NAME also features a rollicking nod to old-fashioned country on "Oklahoma Swing," a lively duet with Reba McEntire that also serves to showcase Gill's formidable six-string skills. Eventually going double platinum, the record cemented Gill's status as a star, and kicked off a remarkably successful run that would culminate in '92's I STILL BELIEVE IN YOU.