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Carrie Underwood experienced a significant moment last month when she returned to “American Idol” as a judge, marking 20 years since she was crowned the champion of the hit singing competition.
The 42-year-old country music icon joined fellow judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, along with longtime host Ryan Seacrest, for the 23rd season of “American Idol,” which premiered on March 9.
When Underwood participated as a contestant in season 4 of “American Idol” in 2005, judge Simon Cowell made a striking prediction regarding the talented singer from Muskogee, Oklahoma.
“Carrie, you’re not just the girl to beat. You’re the person to beat,” Cowell stated after Underwood performed the rock classic “Alone” by Heart.
He then boldly predicted, “Not only will you win this show, you will sell more records than any other previous Idol winner.”
That prophecy came true when Underwood not only won season 4 but went on to sell over 85 million records, making her the most successful winner in “American Idol” history.
Rise to Fame
Underwood’s journey from an eager contestant to a household name began when she clinched the top spot in the fourth season of “American Idol” on May 25, 2005. She earned a million-dollar recording contract as part of her victory.
Just weeks later, she made headlines by releasing her debut single, “‘Inside Your Heaven,” which made her the first country artist to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Her debut studio album, “Some Hearts,” was released in November 2005, quickly ascending to the top of the Top Country Albums Chart and even securing the No. 2 position on the Billboard 200.
This album, which included hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” “Wasted,” and “Before He Cheats,” became the best-selling solo female debut album in country music history and received nine platinum certifications from the RIAA.
In 2006, Underwood was honored with her first Grammy Awards, winning for best new artist and best female country performance. She also earned accolades at the ACM Awards, including the top new female vocalist award and single of the year for “Jesus, Take the Wheel.”
Success with ‘Carnival Ride’
Following “Some Hearts,” Underwood released her second studio album, “Carnival Ride,” in October 2007. This album debuted at No. 1 on both the Billboard 200 and Top Country Albums charts.
Four singles from “Carnival Ride” topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, and the album achieved platinum status shortly after its release.
Underwood received her third Grammy Award in 2008 for best female vocal performance for her hit “Before He Cheats.” Additionally, she won artist of the year and favorite country artist at the American Music Awards (AMAs) and took home multiple awards at the Country Music Association (CMA) Awards.
Soon after, she embarked on her first headlining tour and was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry by fellow member Garth Brooks, an emotional moment for the artist.
Continued Success with ‘Play On’ and Beyond
Underwood’s third album, “Play On,” was released in November 2009, debuting atop both the Billboard 200 and Top Country Albums charts. It included chart-topping singles like “Undo It,” “Cowboy Casanova,” and “Temporary Home.”
She won her fifth Grammy for best country collaboration with vocals for her duet with Randy Travis, showcasing her continuing growth and influence in the industry.
In 2010, Underwood achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman to win the CMA Award for entertainer of the year twice.
Her fourth studio album, “Blown Away,” debuted in May 2012, featuring hit singles “Good Girl” and “Blown Away.” The album solidified her status as a leading figure in country music.
Recent Projects
In November 2018, Underwood released her sixth studio album, “Cry Pretty,” which made her the first female artist to top the Billboard 200 with four country albums.
She expanded her musical repertoire with the release of her first Christmas album, “My Gift,” in September 2020, followed by her first gospel album, “My Savior,” in March 2021.
Return to ‘American Idol’
Underwood’s return to “American Idol” as a judge was announced in August 2024, where she reflected on her journey from contestant to celebrated artist. She expressed pride in her achievements, both on and off the show.
Her performance at the inauguration of President Donald Trump in January 2025, where she sang “America the Beautiful,” highlighted her patriotic spirit, even as she faced technical issues that led to an a cappella performance praised for its authenticity.
Underwood’s ability to connect with her audience continues to be a hallmark of her career, reflecting a remarkable journey that began on “American Idol.”
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