WASHINGTON, DC – Country music star Carrie Underwood made headlines with a poignant performance at the Capitol rotunda during Donald Trump’s inauguration. The ceremony, moved indoors due to harsh winter weather, featured Underwood’s stirring rendition of “America the Beautiful.”
The singer, known for her reluctance to dive into political events, faced initial technical glitches that delayed her appearance.
Undeterred, Underwood took the stage and invited the audience to join her in song, stating, “You know the words.” Her call inspired a communal sing-along, which included notable figures such as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
Upon concluding the performance, Underwood greeted President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, engaging in brief exchanges before leaving the stage.
The announcement of Underwood’s participation in the inauguration was made by a Presidential Inaugural Committee spokesperson one week prior to the event. The American Idol winner later expressed her privilege in being part of such a significant occasion.
In a statement, Underwood conveyed her love for the country and reiterated her commitment to unity. She emphasized the importance of coming together during this pivotal moment in American history.
Despite her high-profile involvement, Underwood has historically kept her political beliefs private. In a 2019 interview, she remarked on the complexity of political discourse, stating that it often lacked nuance and failed to capture the intricacies of reality.
The 2017 inauguration saw a diverse lineup of talents, including performances from Jackie Evancho and the Radio City Rockettes. The Missouri State University Chorale and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir also participated, contributing to the day’s memorable events.
