Country music sensation Carrie Underwood is set to perform “America the Beautiful” at President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, according to a program schedule obtained via Matthew Foldi’s verified X account.
“I love our country and am honoured to have been asked to sing at the inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event. 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,” Underwood shared in a statement to CNN.
The presidential oath of office will be administered by Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, while Justice Brett Kavanaugh is expected to swear in Vice President-elect JD Vance.
Trump’s swearing-in as the 47th president of the United States is scheduled for January 20 at the US Capitol.
Securing Underwood for the inauguration is a major win for Trump, given Hollywood’s consistent lack of support throughout his political career.
During his first term and across the past three election cycles, Trump has faced challenges in gaining backing from prominent Hollywood figures.
At last year’s Republican National Convention, the most notable celebrities to join Trump on stage were musician Kid Rock and retired WWE wrestler Hulk Hogan – a stark contrast to a star at the peak of their career, such as Underwood.
The Grammy-winning performer is among the most prominent figures in country music, boasting numerous multi-platinum hits and high-profile, mainstream business ventures. Underwood serves as the face of Sunday Night Football and is set to debut this March as a judge on ABC’s “American Idol” – the very competition show that launched her career following her win in 2005.
For the most part, Underwood has kept her political opinions to herself throughout her career. She did not specifically reference Trump in her statement, preferring to concentrate on promoting national unity. But for any public figure, especially one as quiet as Underwood, her decision to publicly identify with Trump is noteworthy.
Country music has tended to be more conservative, although Hollywood has always maintained strong ties with the Democratic Party.
However, the tone of country music has changed in recent years as younger musicians have entered the scene. Country music icons like Maren Morris and Mickey Guyton expressed their support for Vice President Kamala Harris during the last election.
(CNN)
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