Carrie Underwood’s performance at Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration was overshadowed by technical glitches and an unexpected setup, leaving the country music star feeling frustrated and disrespected, according to sources. Underwood, 41, sang “America The Beautiful” but faced challenges when her backing track malfunctioned, forcing her to perform a cappella in the Capitol Rotunda.
Sources reported that Underwood was dissatisfied with the cramped and unconventional conditions, which were a stark contrast to the grand stages she is accustomed to. “She felt like she was singing in a crowded room with no proper stage or platform,” a source told DailyMail.com, noting that this disrupted the acoustics and added to her anxiety.
The technical issues occurred after the event was moved indoors due to cold weather. Underwood tried to salvage the moment by engaging the audience, encouraging them to sing along. Despite her efforts, the situation left her feeling uneasy. “She was proud of herself for avoiding a complete disaster, but the performance didn’t meet her expectations,” an insider said.
Before the event, Underwood defended her participation, stating she was honored to contribute to a historic moment, emphasizing unity over politics. She viewed the performance as a chance to showcase her professionalism and begin a significant year, which includes joining the American Idol judges’ panel.
Social media reactions praised Underwood’s resilience under pressure. “Carrie Underwood is an absolute professional! Outstanding job despite the technical difficulties,” one user tweeted. Underwood performed alongside a lineup that included Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Jason Aldean, highlighting a diverse musical selection for the event.
While Underwood’s frustrations were clear, her dedication to delivering a meaningful performance under challenging circumstances resonated with many, reinforcing her reputation as a consummate artist.