At the 2020 Academy of Country Music Awards, Carrie Underwood delivered a breathtaking tribute celebrating the 95th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry, honoring the trailblazing women who helped shape country music.
Dressed in a striking maroon gown, Underwood took the stage at the iconic Grand Ole Opry House and performed a powerful medley of classics from legends like Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, and Martina McBride.
Before beginning, she paid an emotional tribute to these icons, calling them her heroes and expressing deep gratitude for their influence on her journey. Her performance showcased not only her incredible vocal range but also her deep respect for the genre’s roots—earning roaring applause and widespread praise.
The moment carried even greater significance as Underwood, herself an Opry member, stood as the only female nominee for Entertainer of the Year that night—a category she went on to win in a historic tie with Thomas Rhett. It was a milestone that reinforced both her star power and the lasting impact of women in country music.
A Tribute to Alan Jackson at the CMA Awards
Country music’s legacy continued to shine at the 56th Country Music Association Awards, where a group of today’s top artists honored Alan Jackson.
Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, Jon Pardi, and Lainey Wilson each brought their own style while staying true to Jackson’s signature sound.
Underwood’s soaring vocals on “Remember When,” Bentley’s nostalgic take on “Drive,” Pardi’s twang-filled “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” and Wilson’s energetic “Chattahoochee” performance all combined to create a heartfelt celebration.
As Jackson watched from the audience, visibly moved, the crowd responded with thunderous applause. Fellow stars like Luke Bryan and Brooks & Dunn were also seen reacting emotionally.
More than just a tribute, the moment honored a legacy—proving that Alan Jackson’s music continues to resonate just as strongly today as it did at the height of his career.