## From Contestant to Country Icon: Carrie Underwood’s Remarkable Journey
Just last month, Carrie Underwood completed a remarkable circle, returning as a judge on “American Idol” – the very show that launched her career 20 years ago. The Grammy-winning artist joined Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan on the judging panel for the competition’s 23rd season, alongside longtime host Ryan Seacrest.
Back in 2005, when Underwood competed on “American Idol’s” fourth season, judge Simon Cowell famously predicted a monumental future for the then-aspiring singer from Muskogee, Oklahoma. He stated after her performance of Heart’s classic “Alone,” “Carrie, you’re not just the girl to beat. You’re the person to beat.” He further added, “I will make a prediction: Not only will you win this show, but you will sell more records than any other previous Idol winner.”
Cowell’s prophecy proved remarkably accurate. After being crowned the victor of season 4 on May 25, 2005, Underwood has gone on to achieve extraordinary success, selling over 85 million records – a record for any “American Idol” alum.
Here’s a look at how Carrie Underwood transformed from reality television hopeful into a dominant force in country music:
- “American Idol” Victory: Underwood secured a million-dollar recording contract following her win, instantly catapulting her into the spotlight.
- Chart-Topping Debut: Less than a month later, she made history as the first country artist to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with her single “‘Inside Your Heaven’.”
- “Some Hearts”: Her debut studio album, released in November 2005, topped both the Top Country Albums chart and reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200. Featuring hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” “Wasted,” and “Before He Cheats,” it became the bestselling solo female debut album in country music history, earning nine platinum certifications.
- Early Accolades: In 2006, Underwood earned her first Grammy Awards for Best New Artist and Best Female Country Performance. She also won at the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards with the top new female vocalist award and single of the year for “Jesus, Take the Wheel.”
Throughout her career, Underwood has continued to garner praise and awards:
- “Carnival Ride”: Her second album, released in 2007, debuted at No. 1 on both the Billboard 200 and Top Country Albums charts.
- Grammy Recognition: Underwood has amassed a total of eight Grammy Awards to date, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
- Touring & Induction: In 2008, she embarked on her first headlining tour alongside Keith Urban and was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry – a monumental honor in the country music world. As she stated, “It means a lot to me because it’s the heart of country music…the super-elite club that says you love this music.”
- Super Bowl Performance: Underwood delivered a powerful rendition of “America the Beautiful” at Super Bowl XLIV in 2010.
Further solidifying her legacy, Underwood has released numerous successful albums including “Play On” (2009), “Blown Away” (2012), “Storyteller” (2015), “Cry Pretty” (2018) and the Christmas album “My Gift” (2020). She also ventured into gospel music with her 2021 release, “My Savior.” Her most recent studio album, “Denim & Rhinestones” (2022) reached No. 10 on the Billboard 200.
In September 2018, Underwood received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to her enduring impact on entertainment.
“I went from nobody knowing my name to tens of millions of people watching the show,” Underwood shared in a video announcing her return to “American Idol.” “I’m proud of everything I was able to accomplish on the show and so proud of everything I’ve accomplished since.”
To kick off 2025, Underwood performed “America the Beautiful” a cappella at the presidential inauguration ceremony. She previously participated in President Donald Trump’s inaugural celebration in 2017.
