Since winning Season 4 of American Idol in 2005, Carrie Underwood has risen to become one of the most celebrated voices in country music. And while her name now stands among the genre’s elite, the seven-time Grammy winner has never forgotten the women who paved the way for her.
At the 55th Academy of Country Music Awards, Carrie delivered a powerful and emotional tribute to the queens of country music — honoring icons like Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Barbara Mandrell, and Martina McBride in a show-stopping medley that left the entire country music world in awe.
A Tribute Fit for Legends
Taking the stage at the historic Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Underwood marked the 95th anniversary of the legendary venue in breathtaking fashion. Dressed in a regal red floral gown, she stood beneath the lights of an empty auditorium and addressed her musical heroes directly:
“Patsy and Loretta, Martina and Barbara, Reba and Dolly. These strong voices mean so much to me and to all the other female artists who stand on their shoulders. They are some of my heroes, and I am so honored to stand alongside them as a fellow member of the Grand Ole Opry.”
With that, she launched into Patsy Cline’s “Crazy”, before flawlessly transitioning into a string of iconic songs:
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“You Ain’t Woman Enough” – Loretta Lynn
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“I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” – Barbara Mandrell
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“Why’d You Come in Here Lookin’ Like That” – Dolly Parton
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“The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” – Reba McEntire
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“A Broken Wing” – Martina McBride
More Than a Performance — A Moment of Legacy
As Underwood moved from one classic to the next, the energy shifted in the room. Though the audience was virtual, cameras caught the emotional reactions of fellow artists — Miranda Lambert wiping away a tear, Maren Morris holding her hand over her heart, and Keith Urban watching with visible admiration.
Carrie didn’t just sing these songs — she embodied the spirit of the women who made them legendary. Her vocals soared, but her reverence grounded the entire performance in something deeper: respect, gratitude, and legacy.
Carrie Makes History with Entertainer of the Year Win
Later in the night, Underwood made headlines once again by tying with Thomas Rhett for Entertainer of the Year — the first tie in the ACM’s 55-year history.
She edged out heavyweights like Luke Bryan, Eric Church, and Luke Combs, solidifying her place as not just a torchbearer for women in country — but one of the genre’s most powerful forces, period.
The Glamour, The Grit, The Gold
Earlier in the show, Carrie wowed with another standout moment, performing her smash hit “Before He Cheats” alongside fellow nominees. Dressed in a sparkling gold mini dress with billowing sleeves, she lit up the stage with confidence and power, singing into a matching gold microphone — a perfect symbol for the golden legacy she’s building.
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Final Thoughts
On a night meant to celebrate the past, present, and future of country music, Carrie Underwood stood as a bridge between generations — honoring the legends, inspiring the next wave, and reminding fans why she remains a pillar of the genre.
Her tribute wasn’t just a performance — it was a love letter to the women who gave country music its heart, soul, and strength.
