More than five years ago, Carrie Underwood and Kelsea Ballerini teamed up for a truly unforgettable moment in country music history. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to that special night.
On April 16, 2019, during Kelsea Ballerini’s Grand Ole Opry induction in Nashville, the two singers took the stage together for the very first time to perform a beautiful cover of Trisha Yearwood’s 1992 classic, “Walkaway Joe.” Their heartfelt rendition introduced this timeless song to a whole new generation of fans.
The magic between Carrie and Kelsea was undeniable. Their voices blended effortlessly, capturing the soft, emotional essence of Yearwood’s original while adding their own unique touches. It was clear they were made to sing this song together — a truly moving performance that felt like a perfect harmony of talent and emotion.
“Walkaway Joe” tells the story of a young woman crushed by a love that just can’t hold steady — a familiar theme in country music. But with Carrie and Kelsea’s delivery, the song felt fresh and powerful, honoring Trisha Yearwood’s legacy and making her proud.
For a bit of background, “Walkaway Joe” was released in 1992 as the second single from Yearwood’s album Hearts in Armor. It climbed to #2 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Country Vocal Performance — Female. Fun fact: the track also features background vocals by Don Henley, known for “The Boys of Summer.”
And the music video? It’s a classic! It starred a young Matthew McConaughey — a year before he rose to fame with Dazed and Confused. The video’s sweet and romantic vibe fits the song perfectly.
