“Come on in. How are you doing?” With those words, Randy Jackson welcomed Carrie Underwood to her American Idol audition. Despite her nerves, Underwood strode confidently to the center of the room. She sang an old Bonnie Raitt song and stepped into a spotlight that she has not yet relinquished. It’s been nearly 20 years since that moment, and Carrie has grown in every way. As an artist, she’s not only developed her voice, she’s also learned the craft of songwriting and even production, taking more control of her music with each album. As a person, she’s grown up in the public eye, learning to handle the pressures of stardom, starting a family and overcoming life’s unexpected setbacks. And yet it’s striking how in those first few seconds on TV, so much of what we love about Carrie Underwood is right there before us: the girl-next-door charm, the easy wit and most of all, the ability to make us feel a full spectrum of emotions through the simple act of singing a song.
CARRIE UNDERWOOD
Why We Love Carrie • No longer a phenom, now she’s just phenomenal
The Bright Girl from Checotah • Born into a humble family with sturdy values, Carrie took her time in her pursuit of stardom
Everyone Dreams • Carrie’s American Idol experience was what the show is all about
America’s Newest Country Sensation • As a recording artist, Underwood was an instant smash success
The Classics • Looking back at some of Carrie’s best-loved songs
Dynamic Duets • Carrie thrives on making musical magic with collaborators
Facing Uncertainty • In 2017, just when she seemed invincible, Carrie took a fall
Return to The Top • Carrie’s sixth studio album was a professional-and personal-triumph
Total Respect • Carrie Underwood arrived in a flash, but the brilliance of her career has endured
Carrie Underwood - From Idol to Icon
PHOTO CREDITS