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Carrie Underwood‘s inauguration performance didn’t go as planned. Originally, the singer was set to perform “America the Beautiful” on the Capitol steps during Donald Trump‘s swearing-in ceremony. However, the event and Underwood’s performance were moved indoors due to freezing weather conditions. Little did everyone know that would just be the beginning of the ceremony’s setbacks. After taking the stage inside the Capitol Rotunda, Underwood began experiencing technical difficulties, which forced her to do some improvising.
What Happened With Carrie Underwood’s Inauguration Performance?
Clips on X show Carrie Underwood awkwardly waiting for the music to start as everyone watches. After about a minute of silence, the first notes of “America the Beautiful” finally begin playing. However, the music quickly cuts off, creating another moment of awkward silence.
To break the tension, Underwood decided to take matters into her own hands by performing an acapella rendition instead. She was seen mouthing the words “I can just sing it” to a member of the technical crew before inviting everyone in the room to sing with her. “If you know the words, help me out,” she told the crowd.
Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Hillary Clinton were all captured joining the surprise sing-along of “America the Beautiful.”
After Carrie Underwood’s inauguration performance ended, the American Idol alum shook hands with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance before leaving.
Stirring Controversy
Carrie Underwood’s inauguration performance comes exactly a week after it was announced she would be appearing at the event. The news received a mixed reaction from her fans. For example, Trump supporters celebrated her joining the lineup. “Super excited for Monday,” one person commented on Instagram. “You just gained a new follower. #Trump2025,” another person wrote.
Meanwhile, critics of the politician called the singer out for backing him. “Girl, reflect on your choices,” one person said. “You’ve lost my respect,” another told her. Some even called her a “sellout” and vowed to never listen to her music again.
Following the backlash, Carrie Underwood released a statement defending her decision to perform at the inauguration ceremony. “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,” she said, according to Variety. “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.”
