Audience in tears at Underwood’s ACM “How Great Thou Art” performance

Carrie Underwood’s performance of “How Great Thou Art” at the 2011 ACM Girls Night Out event showcased her remarkable vocal prowess and emotional depth. Held on April 4, 2011, the event celebrated influential women in country music, and Underwood’s rendition of the classic hymn, accompanied by Vince Gill on guitar, was a standout moment of the evening. As Underwood began to sing, her powerful voice filled the room, capturing the awe and reverence of the hymn’s lyrics. Gill’s gentle guitar accompaniment provided the perfect backdrop, allowing Underwood’s vocals to shine. By the time she reached the high notes, the audience was visibly moved, many wiping away tears, overwhelmed by the emotional intensity of the performance.

This rendition quickly became a viral sensation, amassing millions of views on YouTube within days. Fans and critics alike praised Underwood’s interpretation, hailing it as one of the finest vocal performances ever. The song itself, originally a Swedish hymn penned by Carl Gustav Boberg in the late 19th century and later translated into English, has been covered by numerous artists, but Underwood’s version stands out for its sheer vocal power and emotional delivery. This performance not only showcased her incredible vocal range but also her ability to convey deep emotion through her music.

Carrie Underwood, born on March 10, 1983, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, rose to prominence as the winner of the fourth season of American Idol in 2005. Her debut album, “Some Hearts,” released later that year, became the best-selling solo female debut album in country music history. With hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Before He Cheats,” Underwood swiftly established herself as a dominant figure in the country music industry. Over the years, she has garnered numerous awards, including seven Grammy Awards, eleven Billboard Music Awards, and fifteen American Music Awards, cementing her status as one of the foremost artists in the genre.

Vince Gill, who accompanied Underwood during the performance, is a legendary country musician known for his smooth voice and exceptional guitar skills. Born on April 12, 1957, in Norman, Oklahoma, Gill has enjoyed a prolific career, releasing over 20 studio albums and earning 22 Grammy Awards, surpassing all other male country artists in this regard. His collaboration with Underwood on “How Great Thou Art” highlighted his ability to enrich any performance with his musical talents.

The 2011 ACM Girls Night Out event featured several memorable performances, including collaborations between Rascal Flatts and Reba McEntire, and Little Big Town with Martina McBride. However, it was Underwood and Gill’s rendition of “How Great Thou Art” that left an enduring impression on both the live audience and viewers at home. The performance was not merely a musical highlight but also a deeply spiritual moment that resonated with people of all faiths.

Underwood’s personal connection to the song extends beyond this performance. She included “How Great Thou Art” in her 2021 gospel album, “My Savior,” which features traditional hymns that hold personal significance to her. In interviews, Underwood has shared how these hymns remind her of her upbringing in a small Baptist church in Oklahoma, where she first developed her love for singing and her deep faith. This personal connection adds another layer of depth to her renditions of these songs.

Throughout her career, Underwood has been recognized for her ability to deliver powerful and emotionally charged performances. “How Great Thou Art” stands as a prime example of this talent. Whether performing in front of thousands of fans or recording in the studio, she brings a level of passion and authenticity that has endeared her to millions worldwide. Her performance at the 2011 ACM Girls Night Out remains a testament to her exceptional vocal mastery and emotional depth.

Carrie Underwood continues to be a prominent figure in the music industry, with a career spanning over a decade of hits and accolades. Her versatility as an artist, capable of performing everything from country anthems to soulful hymns, ensures that she remains relevant and beloved by fans of all ages. Her rendition of “How Great Thou Art” with Vince Gill remains one of the most memorable performances in her illustrious career, a shining example of her vocal prowess and ability to touch the hearts of her audience through music.