Carrie Underwood will take the stage at the U.S. Capitol on January 20 to perform "America the Beautiful" during Donald Trump's inauguration. This marks Underwood's first appearance at a presidential inauguration, a significant moment for the Grammy Award-winning artist.
Underwood will share the spotlight with the Armed Forces Chorus and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club, enhancing the patriotic atmosphere of the event. Her performance will occur after Vice President-elect JD Vance takes his oath of office and just before Trump is sworn in as President.
The inauguration is themed around "the spirit of unity," a message that resonates with Underwood. Despite her previous statements about aiming to remain apolitical, she has faced criticism for her association with Trump, who has been a polarizing figure in American politics.
In a statement to Entertainment Weekly, Underwood expressed her feelings about the performance: “I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event. I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.”
Underwood has previously indicated her desire to avoid political affiliations, stating, "I feel like more people try to pin me places politically,” in an interview with The Guardian in 2019. Nevertheless, her past associations with conservative values have not gone unnoticed by her fans and critics alike.
The inaugural program promises a diverse array of performances, including opera singer Christopher Macchio, and will feature renditions of iconic American songs, such as "The Star-Spangled Banner." Underwood's participation adds to her history of high-profile performances, which include appearances at the Grammy Awards and the Country Music Association Awards.
As January 20 approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a memorable inauguration ceremony. Underwood's participation reflects both her commitment to her craft and the broader themes of unity and patriotism that will be highlighted throughout the event.
