One of Carrie Underwood’s most powerful hits has earned a spot among the greatest country songs of all time—and it all started with a childhood story.
“Jesus, Take the Wheel,” the breakout ballad from her 2005 debut album Some Hearts, helped launch Carrie into country superstardom after winning American Idol. Now, nearly two decades later, the emotional track has been recognized by the Grand Ole Opry as one of the 100 Greatest Country Songs ever—just in time for the Opry’s 100th anniversary in 2025.
The song’s backstory is just as moving as the lyrics. Songwriter Gordie Sampson shared a memory from his aunt, who once told him about losing control of her car on an icy road and calling out to God for help. That moment inspired the phrase, “Jesus, take the wheel,” and soon, with the help of fellow writers Brett James and Hillary Lindsey, the now-iconic song came to life.
At the time, Carrie hadn’t even won American Idol yet. But when the single dropped in 2005, it quickly soared—spending six weeks at No. 1, winning two Grammy Awards, and earning the ACM Single of the Year.
Her performance of the song also caught the attention of Randy Travis, who surprised Carrie with an invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry in 2008. Since then, her career has only continued to shine—selling over 85 million records, winning eight Grammys, and inspiring a new generation of country stars like Lauren Alaina, Kelsea Ballerini, and Carly Pearce.
“Jesus, Take the Wheel” joins other 2000s-era classics on the Opry’s list, including Blake Shelton’s “Austin,” Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett’s “It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere,” and Lady A’s “Need You Now.” The full list is being revealed throughout the summer, celebrating the songs that have shaped the heart of country music.
