Carrie Underwood Rescues Performance with Unplanned A Cappella Act at Trump Inauguration
Renowned country music artist Carrie Underwood exemplified her professionalism and quick thinking during President Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony on Monday, turning a potentially uncomfortable situation into a memorable moment with an unplanned a cappella performance.
The 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremony, held in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, took an unforeseen twist as Underwood waited for her cue to perform “America the Beautiful.” The track played momentarily before cutting off, prompting Underwood to make a split-second call.
“I can just sing it,” she was overheard saying to a member of the production team.
Facing the audience, which included Trump, his family, prominent politicians, and various celebrities, Underwood encouraged, “If you know the words, help me out here.” She then launched into an unaccompanied version of the song.
The “American Idol” alum, who has since taken on the role of a judge for the singing competition, received extensive praise on social media for her quick response and vocal talent.
“The soundtrack not working ended up being a blessing. Carrie has an extraordinary voice and the grace to match. It was perfect,” one X user shared on a post that garnered over 120,000 views. Another user noted, “Her composed reaction to sing acapella, inviting those around her to join in, made it a FAR more engaging and powerful 90 seconds.”
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After her performance, Underwood warmly acknowledged those who had participated in singing and then greeted Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and former President Joe Biden with handshakes.
Underwood’s participation in the inauguration was announced the previous week.
In a statement, she expressed, “I love our country and am honored to have been invited to sing at the inauguration, being a small part of this historic moment. I am humbled to respond to the call at a time when we all need to unite and look toward the future.”
The inauguration ceremony, marking the commencement of Trump’s second term as president, was part of a four-day celebration orchestrated by the inaugural committee, co-chaired by Steve Witkoff and Kelly Loeffler.
“President Trump is committed to bringing the country together through the strength, security, and opportunity of his America First agenda,” Witkoff and Loeffler stated. “The 2025 inaugural celebrations will showcase President-elect Trump’s historic return to the White House and the American people’s substantial vote to Make America Great Again.”
The inaugural festivities included a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, a “MAGA Victory” rally at Capital One Arena, and three inaugural balls. The balls featured performances by various artists, including the Village People, who were scheduled to perform at the Liberty Inaugural Ball.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
