The presidential inauguration of Donald Trump featured renowned country music star Carrie Underwood. The singer performed “America the Beautiful” on January 20 at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., following the oath of office by Vice President J.D. Vance and preceding Trump’s swearing-in as the 47th president.
Political reporter Matthew Foldi disclosed the announcement of Underwood’s participation on X. Underwood, 41, joined the Armed Forces Choir and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club for the day’s performances. The musical lineup also included opera singer Christopher Macchio, who performed the national anthem.
According to a statement from Underwood, she feels honored to be part of the historic event. “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,” she said. Insiders close to Underwood have underscored that her performance is for the country, not specifically for Trump, emphasizing the event’s historical significance over political affiliations.
Underwood’s involvement sparked mixed reactions on the internet. Some critics described her decision as “outrageous,” citing Trump’s divisive legacy, while others lauded her for respecting the occasion. An online user drew attention to her past controversies, while another defended her right to perform free of political constraints.
On January 14, Whoopi Goldberg, a co-host on “The View,” publicly expressed her support for Underwood’s decision, stating, “I stand behind her. She has the right to sing wherever she wants.” Alyssa Farah Griffin, a conservative co-host and former Trump White House staff member, voiced her disapproval of society’s habit of threatening people’s careers over political disagreements.
Trump’s inauguration marks his return to the White House, making him the second U.S. president, after Grover Cleveland, to serve non-consecutive terms. The event followed the traditional protocols, including the official swearing-in, a congressional luncheon, and a military review, held indoors due to the weather. In light of recent national security concerns, the Secret Service, FBI, and National Guard are implementing increased security measures.
In a 2019 interview with The Guardian, Underwood mentioned that she generally avoids political discussions. “I try to stay out of politics because it feels like no one benefits, and it’s overwhelming,” she said. Despite this stance, she occasionally faced backlash for actions like endorsing an anti-mask video in 2021.
Underwood’s decision to perform at the inauguration instigated comparisons to other musicians who have performed at similar events and reignited debates about the role of artists in political ceremonies. Fans also recollected a 2017 parody by Underwood and Brad Paisley at the Country Music Association Awards, interpreted by some as a light mockery of Trump’s use of social media.
Despite varying reactions, Underwood’s career remains solid. The producers of “American Idol,” where Underwood is a judge, have expressed their full support. Insiders predict that the controversy will not significantly impact her established status in the country music industry.
Underwood’s rendition of “America the Beautiful” is one of the highlights of the inauguration ceremony.
