Famed country artist Carrie Underwood graced President Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration with her rendition of “America the Beautiful.” The event took place at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. on January 20, following Vice President J.D. Vance’s oath of office and before Trump’s swearing-in as the 47th president.
Underwood was faced with audio technical difficulties during her performance, prompting her to transition to an a cappella version of the song. She invited the audience to join her, with the support of two military/naval choirs, despite the absence of instrumental backing. The crowd obliged by singing along.
The country music icon donned a sleeveless dove gray dress by Opificio Modenese, styled by Marina Toybina. Complementing her outfit were ivory T-strap Ingiliz pumps and a diamond leaf ring by Noä.
Political reporter Matthew Foldi initially revealed Underwood’s engagement on X. Underwood, 41, collaborated with the Armed Forces Choir and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club for her performance. The ceremony’s musical lineup also featured opera singer Christopher Macchio, who sang the national anthem.
Underwood released a statement expressing her pleasure at being part of such a historic event. “I am honored to have been asked to sing at the inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event. It’s a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and look to the future,” she said. Those close to Underwood underscored that her performance was in honor of the nation, rather than a political endorsement, highlighting the event’s historical significance.
Underwood’s decision to participate was met with mixed online reactions. Detractors dubbed her choice as “outrageous” due to Trump’s controversial presidency, while supporters praised her for respecting the ceremony. Internet users also raised past controversies surrounding Underwood, while others defended her right to perform devoid of political implications.
Co-host of “The View,” Whoopi Goldberg, publicly voiced her support for Underwood’s decision on January 14, declaring, “I stand behind her. She has the right to sing wherever she wants.” Conservative co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former Trump White House staff member, expressed her disapproval of the trend to jeopardize careers over political differences.
Trump’s inauguration marked his return to the White House, making him the second president, following Grover Cleveland, to serve non-consecutive terms. Due to cold weather, the event was conducted indoors. In response to recent national security concerns, the Secret Service, FBI, and National Guard bolstered security measures.
In a 2019 interview with The Guardian, Underwood stated she generally refrains from political discourse. “I try to stay out of politics because it feels like no one benefits, and it’s overwhelming,” she said. Despite this, she faced backlash over endorsing an anti-mask video in 2021.
Underwood’s inauguration performance sparked comparisons to other musicians who have participated in similar events, reigniting conversations about the role of artists in political ceremonies. Fans recalled a 2017 parody by Underwood and Brad Paisley at the Country Music Association Awards, seen by some as a playful jab at Trump’s social media usage.
Despite differing views, Underwood’s career remains unshaken. The producers of “American Idol,” where Underwood serves as a judge, fully back her. Insiders suggest that the controversy will not significantly affect her standing in the country music industry.
Underwood’s performance of “America the Beautiful” was a standout moment of the inauguration ceremony.