Carrie Underwood has been announced as the performer of “America the Beautiful” at the inauguration ceremony for president-elect Donald J. Trump, scheduled for January 20. The news was confirmed by her representatives and the Trump-Vance inaugural committee. Underwood expressed her honor in participating, stating, “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.”
The inauguration will occur in Washington, D.C., and aligns with the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. Underwood will be joined by the Armed Forces Chorus and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club during her performance.
This event marks a notable increase in the profile of entertainers joining the inauguration since Trump’s first swearing-in in 2017, when the most prominent performer was Jackie Evancho, known for her appearance on “America’s Got Talent.” In contrast, Underwood is a household name with numerous accolades to her career.
Following the announcement, her decision sparked diverse reactions across social media, with some conservative fans celebrating her participation while others, particularly among Democratic circles, expressed disappointment. Notably, some media outlets labeled her appearance as politically charged, implying a shift in her typically apolitical public persona.
Despite these interpretations, Underwood has a history of maintaining a neutral stance on political issues, preferring to keep her personal beliefs private. In past interviews, she emphasized her desire to avoid political labels, stating, “I try to stay far out of politics if possible, at least in public, because nobody wins.”
This performance can be seen as a moment of unity, inviting people to set aside differences and celebrate the country’s diversity at a significant national event. The collaboration with military ensembles further reflects a spirit of patriotism, making it a potential highlight of the inauguration.
With the inauguration coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, it serves as a reminder of the values of unity and progress that Dr. King championed, offering a hopeful perspective for the future as the nation looks to come together.