Country singer Carrie Underwood performed a modern rendition of the classic song “America The Beautiful” at the presidential inauguration today. The performance marks her first performance at a presidential ceremony.
Videos by American Songwriter
While the reaction to Underwood accepting the invite to perform at the inauguration has been a hot topic, the reaction to her vocal prowess in the actual performance garnered rave reviews. It looks like there were some production issues that delayed Underwood’s performance as well.
Carrie Underwood sings 'America the Beautiful' a cappella after the soundtrack didn't turn on.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) January 20, 2025
Perfectly executed. pic.twitter.com/soACoVaRyj
Underwood received a round of applause from those in attendance, including former president Joe Biden and former vice president Kamala Harris.
Some have praised Underwood for calling for unity in the wake of the controversy, while others are condemning Underwood for her decision to be part of such a divisive political event after going years without talking about politics at all.
“There’s deep symbolism here as Carrie Underwood invites the assemblage to sing America the Beautiful with her a capella,” said one commenter on X said of Underwood’s inauguration performance. “Democrats and Republicans together. The voices echoing through the rotunda. Chills.”
“Honestly, Carrie Underwood we be one of the few singers to sound so beautifully, on such a whim of technical issues, she handled that well so snaps for her 🫰🏻,” said another.
Along with Underwood, singer/songwriter Lee Greenwood performed a rendition of “God Bless The USA”. Opera tenor Christopher Macchio also sang the national anthem at Trump’s inauguration as well.
How to Watch Carrie Underwood and Others Perform at the Presidential Inauguration
Whether you find Underwood’s choice to perform at President Trump’s inauguration distasteful or not, there are a few ways you can view the inauguration today.
The presidential inauguration began at 11:00 am CT near the West Front of the Capitol in Washington, D.C. A number of news organizations have broadcasted the 2025 inauguration, including CNN, NBC, ABC, and USA TODAY.
CBS News is also slated to air a primetime special of the inauguration at 10:00 pm ET for those who missed the live feed.
Photo by John Angelillo/UPI/Shutterstock
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