President-elect Donald Trump’s second inauguration has announced that country music star Carrie Underwood will perform “America the Beautiful.” This was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Presidential Inaugural Committee. Underwood, accompanied by the Armed Forces Chorus and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club, expressed her honor and humility in being part of this significant event, emphasizing the need for unity.
Underwood, known for her hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and as an “American Idol” winner, stands out among the major artists performing at Trump’s inaugurations. In 2017, Trump’s inauguration concert featured performances from various artists, including Toby Keith and Jackie Evancho, the latter singing the national anthem during the swearing-in ceremony.
Despite the glitz surrounding such high-profile events, the choice of performers is often fraught with political implications. Some artists have declined invitations, such as Jennifer Holliday, who withdrew after facing backlash regarding the political perceptions of her participation. In contrast, Underwood has explicitly refrained from endorsing any political figure, indicating her desire to stay out of political discussions publicly due to the divisive nature of politics.
Interestingly, Underwood was recently part of the New Year’s celebrations, performing live during ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.” Her ability to resonate with a wide audience continues to be a hallmark of her career.
This upcoming performance illustrates the delicate balance artists navigate when participating in politically charged events, but Underwood’s intent to foster a spirit of unity offers a hopeful perspective amidst a polarized political climate.
In summary, Underwood’s performance at Trump’s inauguration aligns with her artistic commitment to promoting inspiration and unity, showcasing music’s power to transcend political divides.