“How Great Thou Art” by Underwood at ACM left audience in tears

Carrie Underwood’s performance of “How Great Thou Art” at the 2011 ACM Girls Night Out event was a stunning display of vocal prowess and emotional depth. Held on April 4, 2011, this event celebrated influential women in country music, highlighting Underwood’s ability to blend her powerful voice with profound emotional resonance.

Accompanied by Vince Gill on guitar, Underwood’s rendition of the classic hymn captivated the audience from the first note. Her voice, known for its clarity and range, filled the venue with a sense of reverence that matched the hymn’s lyrical intensity. Gill’s gentle guitar accompaniment provided a perfect backdrop, allowing Underwood’s vocals to soar effortlessly through the song’s dynamic shifts.

The performance quickly gained traction beyond the live audience, becoming a viral sensation on platforms like YouTube, where it garnered millions of views within days. Critics and fans alike lauded Underwood’s interpretation, praising her as one of the premier vocalists of her generation. The song, originally penned as a Swedish hymn in the late 19th century by Carl Gustav Boberg and later translated into English, has seen many renditions, but Underwood’s version stands out for its sheer vocal power and emotional delivery.

Born on March 10, 1983, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Carrie Underwood rose to fame as the winner of the fourth season of American Idol in 2005. Her victory launched a stellar career in country music, marked by her debut album “Some Hearts,” which became the best-selling solo female debut album in country music history. Hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Before He Cheats” solidified her place as a leading figure in the genre.

Vince Gill, a legendary figure in country music, joined Underwood for this performance. Born on April 12, 1957, in Norman, Oklahoma, Gill’s illustrious career spans decades, marked by his smooth voice and exceptional guitar skills. His collaboration with Underwood on “How Great Thou Art” showcased his ability to enhance any musical performance with his instrumental prowess and harmonious vocal support.

The 2011 ACM Girls Night Out event featured other notable performances, including collaborations between Rascal Flatts and Reba McEntire, as well as Little Big Town with Martina McBride. However, it was Underwood and Gill’s rendition of “How Great Thou Art” that left an enduring impression, blending musical excellence with a deeply spiritual resonance that resonated across audiences of diverse backgrounds and faiths.

Underwood’s connection to the song extends beyond this performance. In her 2021 gospel album “My Savior,” she revisited traditional hymns that hold personal significance, reflecting on her upbringing in a small Baptist church in Oklahoma. This personal connection infuses her performances with a depth of emotion and authenticity that resonates with listeners worldwide.

Throughout her career, Carrie Underwood has been celebrated for her ability to deliver powerful and emotionally charged performances, making “How Great Thou Art” a standout example of her vocal mastery and ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Her versatility as an artist ensures continued relevance and admiration across generations of fans, solidifying her status as a cornerstone of contemporary country music.

Carrie Underwood’s performance at the 2011 ACM Girls Night Out remains a hallmark moment in her career, showcasing not only her vocal talent but also her ability to transcend musical genres and touch the hearts of listeners with her stirring interpretations.