In advance of Donald Trump’s inauguration, country music star Carrie Underwood was announced as a featured performer. She sand “America the Beautiful” on January 20 at the U.S. Capitol, following Vice President J.D. Vance’s oath of office and before Trump was sworn in as the 47th president.
Political reporter Matthew Foldi revealed the news on X, noting that Underwood, 41, would join the Armed Forces Choir and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club for the day’s performances.
Opera singer Christopher Macchio also performed the national anthem, adding to the event’s musical lineup.
On the day of the performance, Underwood encountered audio technical issues that led to an impromptu a cappella performance of the patriotic song. She encouraged audience participation after beginning the song and was accompanied by two military/naval choral groups, though without instrumental backing. The audience joined in singing.
For her attire, she wore a dove gray sleeveless dress designed by Opificio Modenese, styled by Marina Toybina. Her accessories included ivory-colored T-strap Ingiliz pumps and a diamond leaf ring by Noä.
In a statement about her participation, Underwood said, “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.” Sources close to her emphasized that she was performing “for America, not specifically for Trump,” highlighting the event’s historical importance over any political alignment.
The announcement generated polarized reactions online, with fans debating her involvement. Critics called it “outrageous,” referencing Trump’s divisive legacy, while supporters praised her for honoring the occasion. One user remarked, “The signs were all there,” referencing her past controversies, while another defended her choice, arguing that artists should be free to perform without political labels.
Whoopi Goldberg also weighed in on January 14 on “The View,” publicly supporting Underwood’s decision and stating, “I stand behind her. She has the right to sing wherever she wants.” Conservative cohost Alyssa Farah Griffin, who formerly served under Trump at the White House, expressed frustration with society’s tendency to “jeopardize people’s careers simply because we disagree with their politics.”
Trump’s inauguration marks his return to the White House, making him the second president in U.S. history, after Grover Cleveland, to serve non-consecutive terms. The ceremony was held indoors due to the cold weather. Given recent national security concerns, the Secret Service, FBI, and National Guard managed heightened security protocols.
Throughout her career, Underwood has primarily avoided political commentary. In a 2019 interview with The Guardian, she said, “I try to stay out of politics because it feels like no one benefits, and it’s overwhelming.” While this approach has helped her maintain a broad fanbase, moments such as liking an anti-mask video in 2021 have occasionally drawn criticism.
Her choice to perform at the inauguration has drawn comparisons to previous artists at similar events and reignited discussions about the role of musicians in political ceremonies. Fans also recalled a 2017 parody performance by Underwood and Brad Paisley at the Country Music Association Awards, which some perceived as a lighthearted critique of Trump’s social media habits.
Despite the mixed reactions, Underwood’s career appears unaffected. Producers of “American Idol,” where she serves as a judge, have voiced their full support, and insiders predict the controversy will not have a lasting impact given her established status in the country music industry.
Underwood’s rendition of “America the Beautiful” was one of the ceremony’s standout moments. It reflected her belief in unity and the power of music to bring people together, even in divisive times.