Carrie Underwood Then and Now: Singer's transformation from 'American Idol' to country music queen -

Carrie Underwood: 'American Idol', Grammy winner and country music star over the years

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Carrie Underwood gained fame as the winner of the fourth season of the reality TV show 'American Idol' in 2004. Underwood has since become one of the most successful and prominent voices in country music. Hailing from Oklahoma, she made her debut in the singing competition in 2004, and since then, has amassed an impressive collection of eight Grammy Awards and numerous accolades. She has released numerous hit songs and albums in the country genre, including chart-toppers like 'Before He Cheats', 'Jesus, Take the Wheel', 'Blown Away', and 'Cry Pretty'. In 2010, she tied the knot with professional hockey player Mike Fisher, and the couple is now proud parents to two wonderful boys. Carrie Underwood's evolution from an American Idol contestant to a prominent figure in the country music world has been truly remarkable over the years.

2005: 'Some Hearts' and Carrie Underwood's breakthrough

Underwood's had her breakthrough with her debut album 'Some Hearts'. Released in 2005, the album catapulted her to superstardom and established her as a major force in the music industry.

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2007: 'Carnival Ride', Carrie Underwood's first Grammy and commercial success

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'Carnival Ride' was the second studio album by American singer Underwood, released on October 23, 2007. 'Carnival Ride' earned Underwood her first Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance for the song 'Last Name'. The laurel was a significant milestone in her career, recognizing her vocal talent and artistry. The album was a commercial success too, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.

2009: 'Play On' and Carrie Underwood's continued success

'Play On' was Underwood's third studio album, released on November 3, 2009. It showcased her versatility as an artist, featuring a blend of country, pop, and rock elements. 'Play On' debuted at number one on both the Billboard 200 and the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, solidifying Carrie Underwood's position as a chart-topping artist. Her continued success with this album paved the way for her subsequent projects, further establishing her as one of the most influential and enduring artists in both the country and pop music scenes.

2010: Carrie Underwood marries NHL star Mike Fisher

Underwood and NHL star Mike Fisher tied the knot in a beautiful wedding ceremony on July 10, 2010. The wedding took place at The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation, a luxury resort in Greensboro, Georgia. It was a private and elegant affair attended by close friends and family. Underwood, the country music sensation, and Fisher, a professional ice hockey player, had met through mutual friends and began dating in 2008. Their relationship quickly blossomed, leading to their engagement in December 2009.

2012: 'Blown Away' and Carrie Underwood's world tour

In 2012, Carrie Underwood embarked on her 'Blown Away' world tour, marking a significant milestone in her music career. This tour was in support of her fourth studio album, also titled 'Blown Away', which had been released earlier that year. The album was well-received by both fans and critics, and it showcased Underwood's versatility as an artist. One of the best moments of the tour was her mesmerizing performance of the album's title track, 'Blown Away'. The tour took Carrie Underwood to various cities across North America, including several stops in the United States and Canada.

2014: Carrie Underwood pays tribute to Linda Ronstadt

In 2014, Underwood had the honor of paying tribute to the legendary singer Linda Ronstadt during her performance at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. This tribute was a significant moment in the event, celebrating Linda Ronstadt's illustrious career and her impact on the world of music. Linda Ronstadt, known for her versatile and powerful vocals, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame that year. Carrie Underwood famously took the stage to perform some of Linda Ronstadt's iconic songs.

2015: Carrie Underwood welcomes her first child and releases 'Storyteller', her fifth studio album

In 2015, Underwood celebrated two significant milestones in her life and career. Firstly, she welcomed her first child, a son named Isaiah Michael Fisher, with her husband, NHL star Mike Fisher. The birth of their son marked a joyful and transformative moment for Carrie Underwood as she embraced motherhood. While expecting her first child, Carrie Underwood's trainer, Erin Oprea, openly admired Underwood's unwavering commitment to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle throughout her pregnancy. "She's a champ!" she told People. Meanwhile, in October 2015, Carrie Underwood released her fifth studio album, titled 'Storyteller'. This album featured a collection of songs that showcased her exceptional vocal talent and storytelling abilities.

2018: Carrie Underwood releases 'The Champion' with Ludacris for Super Bowl LII

In anticipation of Super Bowl LII, Underwood released a song titled 'The Champion', featuring the rapper Ludacris. The song was released in January 2018 and was specifically created as an anthem for the Super Bowl and to inspire athletes and fans alike. The song was used in various promotional materials and broadcasts leading up to and during Super Bowl LII, which took place on February 4, 2018.

2018: Carrie Underwood releases her sixth studio album 'Cry Pretty'

In 2018, Underwood released her highly anticipated sixth studio album, titled 'Cry Pretty.' This album marked a significant moment in her career as it not only showcased her evolution as an artist but also reflected a more personal and introspective side of her music. The album's title track, 'Cry Pretty', was a standout single that displayed Underwood's powerful vocals and emotional depth. It resonated with fans and critics alike, becoming one of her signature songs. Throughout the album, Underwood's storytelling ability shone as she explored various aspects of life and love. Songs like 'Love Wins' and 'The Bullet' addressed social and political issues. The release of 'Cry Pretty' marked her return to music after a brief hiatus due to personal and health-related challenges.

2018: Carrie Underwood denies getting plastic surgery after 'freak' accident

In November 2017, Underwood was in what she called a "freak accident," resulting in a broken wrist and requiring 40 stitches on her face. However, except for a small scar, the effects of her injury are hardly noticeable. In an interview with Redbook magazine, Underwood clarified the situation and refuted speculations about her undergoing plastic surgery due to the injury. Nevertheless, Underwood assured the magazine that her confidence remains unshaken despite the injury. "Any time someone gets injured, it looks pretty bad in the beginning, and you're like, 'What is this going to wind up like?' You just don't know," she said, according to Insiders.com.

2019: Carrie Underwood returns to 'American Idol' and welcomes her second child

In 2019, Underwood had a year filled with significant moments both in her career and personal life. She made a memorable return to the iconic television show 'American Idol' and also celebrated the arrival of her second child.

2020: Carrie Underwood releases her debut book and first Christmas album

In 2020, Carrie Underwood delighted fans by unveiling her debut book, sharing personal insights and stories. Simultaneously, she brought the holiday spirit with her first Christmas album, adding her unique touch to classic festive tunes.

2022: Carrie Underwood releases 'Denim & Rhinestones' and receives her 8th Grammy Award

In 2022, Carrie Underwood treated her fans to her album 'Denim & Rhinestones,' showcasing her enduring musical prowess. Her remarkable talent was further celebrated when she clinched her 8th Grammy Award, solidifying her status as a music icon.

2023: Carrie Underwood continues to reign over country music

Carrie Underwood performed at Turning Stone Resort Casino on Friday night, September 15, as part of the casino's 'The Next 30' line-up. She posted a picture on Instagram and wrote, "Had a lot of fun last night @turningstone in Verona, NY! ❤️ Thanks for singing along and showing us a good time! Now we’ve just got to get @edeasonofficial and @ponisilver away from the bingo hall!"