Carrie Underwood started out as a contestant on American Idol, back when contestants had a real shot at a thriving musical career. Since then, the show has taken a dip when it comes to producing artists ready to take on the music industry. She went on to record hit records such as "Jesus Take The Wheel," "Before He Cheats," and "Cry Pretty." Underwood is a legend among the American Idol community as contestants cite her as an inspiration, time and time again. Here are the most iconic moments from her time on season four of American Idol.
"I Can’t Make You Love Me" – Audition Week
This was the first song that Carrie Underwood sang to get through the cutthroat St. Louis auditions, and she blew the judges away. At the time, Underwood was only 21, but she had a big, beautiful voice. She had just graduated from Northeastern State University and wanted to pursue her dream of being a singer. This was just the introduction to who Underwood could be. It was the first glimpse of her immense star power.
"Alone" – Top 11
In the top 11, Underwood's performance of this song allowed people to truly see the potential that Underwood had. While her audition made people look at her as a serious competitor, the judges took notice of her and finally began to see the billboard-smashing artist she would be. Underwood really started coming out of her shell, and it was one of the first performances where she began to show charisma and energy. American Idol judge Simon Cowell told Underwood, "I'm going to go out on a limb and make this prediction. I predict that you are going to go on to win this whole thing and sell more records than any other American Idol."
"Angels Brought Me Here" – Top 2
If viewers were still unsure before as to who was going to win season four of American Idol, the confusion ended here. After this emotional and heart-wrenching performance of "Angels Brought Me Here," judge Simon was so blown away by Underwood that he said, “You have done enough to win this competition.” Randy Jackson was so amazed that he gave her a standing ovation. Paula Abdul praised her highly for her amazing performance. Underwood gave a memorable performance, like Mariah Carey, who had memorable moments of her own as a judge.
"Inside Your Heaven" – Finale
This was a very emotional and heartfelt performance as Underwood performed her final song on American Idol to secure that record deal she was destined to have. She gave the song her all, and the emotion could be felt through every note that she sang. Underwood proved to be way better than the runner-up Bo Bice, and it was evident that she was the clear leader in the finale. Bice gave it his all, but Underwood was simply better.