Carrie Underwood, the illustrious country music star and Oklahoma native, is set to perform "America the Beautiful" at Donald Trump's second inauguration. Known for her soulful voice and chart-topping hits, Underwood has largely maintained an apolitical stance throughout her career. She continues to be a celebrated artist, having won three Grammy awards and capturing the hearts of millions since her rise to fame after winning the fourth season of American Idol.
Underwood's commitment to staying out of political frays in public is well-documented. She has expressed her desire to avoid political entanglements, stating, "I try to stay far out of politics if possible, at least in public, because nobody wins." Despite this stance, she has not shied away from voicing her opinions on animal cruelty, a cause she holds dear. In 2013, Underwood spoke against a Tennessee bill that would have made it more difficult for activists to document instances of animal cruelty, showcasing her unwavering commitment to animal rights.
Although she has poked fun at political figures in the past, including Donald Trump, Underwood has managed to maintain a balance between her personal beliefs and public persona. During the 2017 Country Music Awards, she performed a musical parody with Brad Paisley that humorously referenced Trump's Twitter habits. The parody included the line:
"It's fun to watch, yeah, that's for sure / 'til little Rocket Man starts a nuclear war." – Carrie Underwood
Despite her playful jabs, Underwood's inclusion in Trump's inauguration lineup doesn't mark her first encounter with high-profile events. She has previously performed at occasions such as Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest and was part of the lineup for the 2021 inauguration of Joe Biden. Her ability to navigate such diverse platforms underscores her versatility and broad appeal.
Underwood's performance at Trump's inauguration will showcase her vocal prowess in a patriotic setting, reinforcing her status as a beloved American icon. Her repertoire of hit songs, including "Inside Your Heaven," "Jesus, Take the Wheel," and "Cowboy Casanova," continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.