Carrie Underwood is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to national fame as the winner of the fourth season of *American Idol* in 2005[1][4]. Born in 1983 in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and raised in Checotah, she developed an early interest in music, performing in local events and even auditioning for Capitol Records in Nashville at age 14, though a deal did not materialize at that time[4][7]. After graduating from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Underwood’s career took a decisive turn with her *American Idol* victory, which launched her into the spotlight and earned her a loyal fan base[1][4]. Her debut single, “Inside Your Heaven,” made her the first country artist to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, and her first album, *Some Hearts* (2005), became a multi-platinum success, establishing her as a leading figure in contemporary country music[1][3]. Underwood’s subsequent albums, including *Carnival Ride*, *Play On*, and *Blown Away*, all debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, a rare feat for a country artist[2][4]. She has recorded 28 number-one singles (14 co-written), sold over 85 million records worldwide, and earned more than 72 million RIAA certifications[3]. Underwood’s accolades include eight Grammy Awards, 16 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards (with three Entertainer of the Year wins—a record for female artists), 25 CMT Music Awards, seven CMA Awards, and 17 American Music Awards[3][4]. She was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2008 by Garth Brooks, becoming one of its youngest members at the time[2][6]. Beyond music, Underwood has acted in films such as *Soul Surfer* and *The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader*, and starred as Maria von Trapp in NBC’s *The Sound of Music Live!* in 2013[5][9]. She is also a New York Times bestselling author and has lent her voice to the theme of *Sunday Night Football* for multiple seasons[3][5]. In recent years, Underwood has maintained her prominence through sold-out tours, a Las Vegas residency, and high-profile television appearances. She returned to *American Idol* as a judge, marking a full-circle moment in her career[1]. In 2025, she is celebrating the 20th anniversary of her debut with a special vinyl release of *Some Hearts*, underscoring her enduring influence in the music industry[1]. Underwood continues to record, tour, and expand her brand, remaining one of the most successful and recognizable figures in country music today[1][3].