Carrie Underwood overcomes major technical snag with soulful a cappella performance at Trump inauguration

WASHINGTON, DC: Carrie Underwood took the stage at President Donald Trump’s inauguration in Washington, DC, on Monday, January 20 to perform 'America the Beautiful' but was met with unexpected challenges.

Wearing a simple yet elegant off-white gown, the 41-year-old singer approached the microphone, smiling confidently before the moment took an unexpected turn. 

Carrie Underwood faces major technical snag ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration performance

For several tense seconds, the background music failed to start, leaving Underwood visibly perplexed.

The awkward pause was broken when she addressed the audience inside the Capitol, saying, "You know the words, help me out here."

Without missing a beat, she began singing the song a cappella, delivering a heartfelt and powerful rendition of the classic patriotic song.

Carrie Underwood's graceful exit at Donald Trump's inauguration

Following her performance, Carrie Underwood clapped, bowed, and warmly shook hands with President Donald Trump and former president Joe Biden before leaving the stage with a smile.

Underwood announced her participation in the inauguration on January 13, expressing her pride and humility in being part of the historic occasion.

“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 in a statement to USA Today.

“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,” she added.

Backlash against Carrie Underwood and industry concerns

Carrie Underwood’s decision to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration was not without controversy.

Her participation in the event drew criticism from some corners, including executives from 'American Idol', where she serves as a judge.

According to insider reports, producers expressed concerns that her appearance could politicize the show and alienate viewers.

“A lot of viewers are already speaking of a boycott,” a source revealed, according to The Sun.

“Whether or not that’s true or just noise will be seen after the ratings come in, but the conversation it now brings Idol into is not what producers want. They want the show to be an escape from politics,” the insider added.

Even her 'American Idol' co-stars Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and host Ryan Seacrest reportedly felt uneasy about the decision, fearing they might be drawn into the controversy during future interviews.

However, it was confirmed that Underwood’s participation did not conflict with her 'American Idol' commitments or breach her contract.

Fans praise Carrie Underwood's resilience after being hit by major technical glitch

Despite the backlash, Carrie Underwood’s ability to handle the technical mishap with poise earned widespread praise from fans.

Many took to social media to applaud her resilience and talent, while others highlighted how she turned an awkward moment into a memorable performance.

One user on X wrote, "This pretty much sums up the spirit of America. When you're faced with a problem, you don't stop. You keep moving ahead -- proudly. Kudos to @carrieunderwood. Well done!"

Another commented, "Carrie nailed it. America’s beauty, no backing track needed. Pure greatness!"

"Now that was professionalism. And I think it was better a cappella, along with the chorus. Beautifully done," a netizen remarked, while someone penned, "Carrie Underwood crushed it. The woman has nerves of steel. Just decided to sing it A cappella. Legendary moment."

"Carrie Underwood is a national treasure. A consummate professional," one person wrote, while another noted, "Carrie Underwood was amazing! With total grace, she stepped into the gap and filled the Rotunda with beautiful music! Beautifully done!"

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