Since winning American Idol back in 2005, Carrie Underwood has grown into one of country music’s most powerful and beloved voices. But despite her incredible success, the seven-time Grammy winner has never forgotten the women who inspired her journey.
At the 55th Academy of Country Music Awards, Carrie delivered a stunning, emotional tribute to the queens of country — celebrating icons like Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Barbara Mandrell, and Martina McBride. It wasn’t just a performance — it was a heartfelt thank-you to the women who built the foundation she stands on today.
A Stage Made for Legends
Performing from the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville — the very heart of country music — Carrie set the tone with pure grace. Dressed in a flowing red floral gown, she stood beneath the spotlights of an empty theater and spoke directly to her heroes:
“Patsy and Loretta, Martina and Barbara, Reba and Dolly — these strong voices mean so much to me and to every female artist who stands on their shoulders. They are some of my heroes, and I’m so honored to stand alongside them as a member of the Grand Ole Opry.”
Each note carried both power and tenderness — a reflection of the women who sang them first.
A Performance That Moved the Stars
Even through the screen, the emotion was unmistakable. Cameras caught fellow artists like Miranda Lambert wiping away tears, Maren Morris holding her heart, and Keith Urban watching in admiration.
Carrie didn’t just cover those songs — she channeled the strength, heart, and grit of the women who made them timeless.
Making History in the Same Night
Later that evening, Carrie made ACM history by tying with Thomas Rhett for Entertainer of the Year — the first tie in the award show’s 55-year run. It was a full-circle moment for a woman who has spent her career breaking barriers for others to follow.
Earlier in the show, she also performed her hit “Before He Cheats” with trademark confidence — dressed in gold, glowing under the lights, microphone in hand, as if to say: this is what country power looks like.
A Love Letter to Country Music
By the end of the night, it was clear — Carrie Underwood hadn’t just performed a medley. She’d delivered a love letter to the women who came before her, the ones who made it possible for her to take the stage at all.
With elegance, emotion, and unmatched talent, she honored the past, celebrated the present, and inspired the future — reminding everyone why she’s not just a star of country music, but one of its greatest storytellers.
