During President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, technical difficulties led to a rather heartwarming, bipartisan moment.
County music superstar Carrie Underwood was slated to sing “America the Beautiful” during Trump’s inauguration ceremony alongside The Armed Forces Chorus and The United States Naval Academy Glee Club. However, technical difficulties temporarily delayed the performance inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.
While Underwood was standing in front of the crowd alongside Trump, now-former President Joe Biden, and their allies, the music began to play — then stuttered and stopped playing. This led to awkward silence in the Capitol Rotunda as everyone began looking around the room, attempting to figure out what was going on.
When it became clear that the music was not going to play because of a technical difficulty, Underwood stepped up and proved why she is a legend — singing the song a cappella and asking the crowd to join her if they know the lyrics.
“You know the words, help me out here,” Underwood said before launching into an incredibly impressive performance.
Politicians and guests on both sides of the political aisle joined Underwood, The Armed Forces Chorus, and The United States Naval Academy Glee Club in singing the patriotic song. Even Biden could be seen mouthing some of the words while Underwood sang, and the crowd at the Capitol One arena who were watching the ceremony live on the big screen joined in.
Social media users were quick to praise Underwood for her performance and her courage.
“Perfectly executed,” wrote commentator Collin Rugg.
Carrie Underwood sings 'America the Beautiful' a cappella after the soundtrack didn't turn on.
Perfectly executed. pic.twitter.com/soACoVaRyj
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) January 20, 2025
“She has an incredible voice. I know it was better without the soundtrack,” one user commented, to which Rugg replied: “Only possible in the Rotunda too with the acoustics.”
Only possible in the Rotunda too with the acoustics.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) January 20, 2025
“I enjoyed Carrie’s performance more without the background music – it was nice hearing everyone else sing along with her,” another user wrote.
I enjoyed Carrie's performance more without the background music – it was nice hearing everyone else sing along with her.
— Craig Chamberlin (@CraigChamberlin) January 20, 2025
“This pretty much sums up the spirit of America. When you’re faced with a problem, you don’t stop. You keep moving ahead — proudly. Kudos to @carrieunderwood. Well done!” another user wrote.
This pretty much sums up the spirit of America. When you're faced with a problem, you don't stop. You keep moving ahead — proudly. Kudos to @carrieunderwood. Well done!
— Right Winged CDN (@DKNExCDN) January 20, 2025
The technical difficulties were likely the result of the sudden venue change for the event — as Trump’s inauguration ceremonies had to be moved inside after reports indicated that the weather would reach record cold temperatures, though many believe that the decision was made partially because of potential threats to Trump’s life and the lives of those who planned to attend the events.