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.

Rising country star Ella Langley is gearing up to release her brand-new single “Choosin’ Texas” this Friday, October 17 — and fans are already buzzing. Co-written with country legend Miranda Lambert, the song promises to blend Langley’s rugged charm with Lambert’s unmistakable storytelling flair. Expect a track full of grit, honesty, and southern pride.

A True Country Collaboration

Ella Langley has made a name for herself with songs that feel real and unapologetically authentic. From “Excuse the Mess” to her duet with Koe Wetzel, “That’s Why We Fight,” she’s never shied away from singing about life’s messier moments — love, strength, and standing your ground.

Now teaming up with Miranda Lambert, one of country music’s most respected songwriters, Langley is stepping into a new chapter. Lambert, known for hits like “The House That Built Me” and “Kerosene,” has always championed women who tell their stories their own way. So, it’s no surprise that this collaboration feels both natural and exciting.

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What “Choosin’ Texas” Might Mean

Even before its release, the title “Choosin’ Texas” sparks curiosity. It sounds like a song about identity, independence, and knowing where you belong. Texas has always held a special place in country music — a symbol of freedom, roots, and authenticity. Those themes are right in line with both Langley and Lambert’s musical spirits.

If the song follows the vibe of Lambert’s past collaborations — like her rowdy hit with Elle King, “Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home),” or the raw, acoustic storytelling of “The Marfa Tapes” — fans might be in for something heartfelt and organic, filled with emotion and simple, timeless production.

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A Big Step for Ella Langley

“Choosin’ Texas” marks a big moment for Ella Langley. After years of touring with major acts and building a fanbase through her honest, powerhouse performances, she’s proving that she’s more than a rising voice — she’s a songwriter with staying power.

Working with Miranda Lambert is a major nod from Nashville’s elite, showing that Langley is quickly becoming one of the genre’s most promising storytellers.

As the release date approaches, excitement is building fast. If early reactions are any clue, “Choosin’ Texas” could be the song that takes Ella Langley from one-to-watch to country’s next breakout star.

There’s something truly magical when country music meets timeless hymns—and this performance of “Will The Circle Be Unbroken” proves it. Four country music legends took the stage together, creating a moment fans will never forget.

Hall of Famers Connie Smith, Loretta Lynn, George Strait, and Alan Jackson blended their iconic voices in perfect harmony, giving this classic hymn a fresh yet heartfelt energy. Hearing such legendary voices come together for a song about love, family, and reunion is nothing short of breathtaking.

It’s a reminder that one day we’ll all be reunited in Heaven—and what a joyful day that will be. Who else feels like playing this beautiful hymn on repeat?

Reba McEntire might be one of the biggest names in country music today, but she never forgets the legends who inspired her journey. During the Grand Ole Opry’s 100-year celebration in March 2025, Reba took a heartfelt moment to honor two of her biggest heroes — Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn.

As Today reported, Reba spoke lovingly about both women before performing some of their most iconic songs. Later, on April 14, she shared a special video from that night — her powerful performance of Loretta Lynn’s “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” — in honor of what would have been Loretta’s 93rd birthday.

“Happy heavenly birthday to my friend and country music trailblazer,” Reba wrote in the caption, tagging Loretta’s official Instagram page. Fans flooded the comments with love, heart emojis, and their own birthday wishes for the late legend. Loretta, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 90, clearly continues to touch hearts everywhere.

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A Connection That Started in Childhood

Reba’s admiration for Loretta goes way back — all the way to when she was just 11 years old. In a 2016 interview with Big Machine Label Group, Reba recalled being a wide-eyed little girl when Loretta performed at a rodeo in Oklahoma.

“That’s the first time I actually met her,” Reba shared. “I whipped off my belt for her to sign, and man, I wish I still had that belt. I love Loretta Lynn.”

A close friend later told Closer Weekly that Loretta was everything Reba aspired to be — “confident, talented, nobody’s fool, and a woman who stood up for herself in her songs.” Over the years, Loretta became not just an inspiration but also a mentor, helping guide Reba through the ups and downs of the country music world.

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Saying Goodbye to a Legend

When Loretta passed away on October 4, 2022, Reba was among the many artists who poured their hearts out in tribute. She shared a touching post on Instagram featuring a sweet photo of the two of them together.

Reba wrote that Loretta reminded her of her own mother — not only because they were close in age, but because both women were strong, honest, and unshakably kind.

“I sure appreciate her paving the rough and rocky road for all us girl singers,” Reba wrote.

It was a message that summed up everything Loretta Lynn stood for — courage, compassion, and the strength to open doors for others. And as Reba’s emotional performance at the Opry proved, that legacy is still shining bright.

Blake Shelton stepped into the spotlight with a performance that reminded everyone why Elvis Presley remains the King of Rock ’n’ Roll. During a special tribute event, Shelton delivered a heartfelt rendition of the classic hit “Suspicious Minds,” capturing both the spirit and the swagger of Elvis without ever feeling like a mere imitation.

With every note, Shelton’s rich country timbre blended seamlessly with the iconic melody, bringing a fresh energy to the timeless track. The audience was captivated, swaying along as he hit the soaring chorus with effortless passion.

The performance wasn’t just about nostalgia—it was a celebration. Shelton’s connection to the song was evident in his expression and stage presence, honoring Presley’s legacy while infusing it with his own signature style. Fans and critics alike praised the performance as a respectful, yet bold, tribute to one of music’s greatest icons.

By the final note, the room erupted in applause, reminding everyone that great music transcends generations. Blake Shelton didn’t just perform “Suspicious Minds”—he kept the King’s spirit alive for a new audience, proving that classic hits can feel both timeless and thrilling in the right hands.

The 2016 CMA Awards, celebrating its 50th anniversary, gave country music fans a night to remember. Among the many unforgettable performances, one truly stood out: the long-awaited duet between two of country music’s biggest legends, Alan Jackson and George Strait. The energy in the room was electric as fans anticipated a historic musical moment.

Alan Jackson opened the stage with his heartfelt ballad, “Remember When,” a song filled with nostalgia and emotion. As he sang, the audience was treated to images of country legends like Johnny Cash and George Jones, connecting past and present in a beautiful tribute to the genre’s rich history. His soulful voice set the perfect stage for what was about to come.

Then, George Strait, the “King of Country,” appeared from backstage, serenading the crowd with his hit “Troubadour.” Strait’s signature smooth vocals immediately commanded attention, and the audience erupted in cheers. His presence alone elevated the performance, and fans knew something magical was about to happen.

The true highlight came when Jackson and Strait joined forces. Their voices blended flawlessly, harmonizing on each note and creating a performance that felt both timeless and intimate. Every lyric carried the weight of decades of musical experience, and it was clear why these two are considered among the best in country music.

As Brad Paisley introduced them, he called them “two of the best we’ve got,” and their duet at the 2016 CMA Awards lived up to that praise. The performance was more than just a song—it was a celebration of country music’s legacy, a reminder of the genre’s emotional power, and a moment that fans will cherish forever.