Country music star Carrie Underwood will perform "America the Beautiful" at Donald Trump's presidential inauguration ceremony on January 20th at the U.S. Capitol, sparking mixed reactions from fans.
"I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event," Underwood said in a statement. The Grammy-winning artist will be joined by the Armed Forces Choir and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club during her performance.
The announcement has generated controversy on social media, with some fans expressing disappointment in Underwood's decision to participate. Critics have taken to Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) to voice their concerns, with some calling for boycotts of her music.
The inauguration lineup includes other notable performers such as Lee Greenwood, who will sing "Proud to Be an American" as Trump walks onto the inaugural platform, and the Village People, who will perform at one of the inaugural balls. Kid Rock and Billy Ray Cyrus are scheduled to appear at a pre-inauguration "Victory Rally" at Capital One Arena.
Underwood, who rose to fame after winning American Idol in 2005, has previously maintained a neutral stance on politics. In 2017, she participated in a lighthearted parody of Trump's social media habits during the Country Music Awards alongside Brad Paisley.
The Presidential Inaugural Committee confirmed that Underwood's performance will take place between Vice President-elect JD Vance's oath of office and Trump's presidential oath.