Carrie Underwood’s performance of America the Beautiful at the inauguration of US President Donald Trump was disrupted by technical difficulties, forcing her to finish the song a cappella in front of the large crowd gathered in the Capitol’s rotunda.

The ceremony marked Trump’s return to office as the 47th President of the United States, succeeding Joe Biden, who served a four-year term.

Trump’s Inauguration Speech

During his speech, Trump referenced an assassination attempt he survived earlier in the year, stating:

“I was saved by God to make America great again.”

He went on to proclaim, “The golden age of America begins now,” and declared the day of his inauguration as “liberation day.”

Trump also outlined controversial policy stances, including reaffirming that the government would officially recognise only two genders, male and female. He announced plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America and to revert Mount Denali’s name to Mount McKinley.

Underwood’s Performance and Public Reaction

Underwood’s performance followed Trump’s speech. After completing her rendition, she shook hands with Trump, former President Biden, and former Vice President Kamala Harris.

The event, held on 20th January at the US Capitol, featured performances from Billy Ray Cyrus and the Village People, known for their hit song Y.M.C.A.

However, news of Underwood’s involvement sparked backlash on social media. Fans expressed their disappointment at her decision to perform at the controversial politician’s inauguration.

One user, Anna (@vegannabananna), wrote:

“Carrie Underwood, you’re most famous for singing about keying the car of a man who cheated! And now you’re performing for a man who has cheated on every wife he’s had and cheated the country out of peace and common sense! Girl, gfy.”

Another, @Creat1ve, added:

“And when it comes to Carrie Underwood, disappointed but not surprised. Jesus, take the wheel indeed.”

Others, like @gagacasonova, shared their dismay:

“I’ve been a huge fan for 13 years… there is no defending this… @carrieunderwood.”

@Suzierizzo1 stated:

“Carrie Underwood is performing at Trump’s inauguration, so I’m blocking her on all apps and boycotting all her music.”

Underwood’s Statement

In a statement released before the event, Underwood, 41, expressed her pride in performing at the historic occasion:

“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 look to the future.”

A Successful Career

Underwood first rose to fame in 2005 as the winner of the fourth season of American Idol, following in the footsteps of fellow winner Kelly Clarkson. Her debut single, Inside Your Heaven, topped the Billboard Hot 100, with subsequent hits such as Jesus, Take the Wheel and Before He Cheats solidifying her as a music icon.

Underwood has since earned eight Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist in 2006, and boasts a reported net worth of $120 million (£98 million). Despite the controversy surrounding her recent performance, she remains one of the most successful country music artists of her generation.