One of the most popular country music superstars in America, Carrie Underwood, has said she will sing "America the Beautiful" at President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20.
Political reporter Matthew Foldi announced the development by posting a photo of the inauguration program on X, and the Trump transition team confirmed the announcement.
NEWS:@carrieunderwood performing at Donald Trump’s inauguration pic.twitter.com/pek9EdBwkm
— Matthew Foldi (@MatthewFoldi) January 13, 2025
Underwood will perform the song with The Armed Forces Chorus and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club just before Trump is sworn in.
Underwood got her start when she won American Idol in 2005, and she has become one of the top-selling artists of all time.
She has won multiple Grammy Awards and was part of a trend of country music artists crossing over into mainstream music.
Her hits have included "Jesus Take the Wheel," "Blown Away," and "Before He Cheats."
“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,” Underwood told People. “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.”
Unlike many other musicians, Underwood has kept her political views private over the years, so it is not known whether she is a Democrat or a Republican.
Underwood is one of several musicians who will perform at the inauguration.
Operatic tenor Christopher D. Macchio will sing the National Anthem and other musical selections.
Macchio performed at many of Trump's rallies and was popular with crowds there.
The U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club will perform “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Combine Choirs will also perform various musical selections.
The Village People will perform at two inaugural events, but not during the inauguration itself.
