Nobody saw it coming, not even the Idol judges or viewers in their living rooms. When Carrie Underwood took the stage for American Idol’s Easter special and poured her heart into “How Great Thou Art,” the world seemed to halt. It was more than simply a song; it was something sacred. Raw. Real. It was akin to a musicalized prayer. Even Jelly Roll, who usually speaks a lot, found herself suddenly silent. Upon viewing it, you’ll likely find yourself captivated as well.
When American Idol revealed plans to air a faith-based special on Easter Sunday (April 20), fans knew judge Carrie Underwood would provide a beautiful and meaningful performance. Underwood has publicly acknowledged her beliefs from the beginning of her career. She released “Jesus, Take the Wheel” as the first single from her debut album. Another of her hallmark songs, “Something in the Water,” discusses baptism and salvation. My Savior topped both the Billboard Top Country Albums and the Top Christian Albums charts upon its debut. In 2022, it received the Grammy for Best Roots Gospel Album.
Underwood sang all 13 songs from My Savior in a web special that aired on Easter Sunday, 2021. The program was taped in Nashville’s iconic Ryman Auditorium. Underwood teared up as she described how difficult it may be to be a person of faith in the music industry. “Hello, ladies… I want to tell you how tough it is to enter the entertainment industry while maintaining your beliefs. It is a brave thing to undertake since many outside influences will tell you not to do it. I want you to know that I am proud of you.”
Carrie Underwood delivers a stunning performance. Underwood shared her beliefs with a large audience at American Idol’s “Songs of Faith” special on Easter Sunday (2025). The top 20 candidates, judges, special guests, and artist-in-residence Jelly Roll all delivered faith-inspired performances during the special.
When it was time for her to hit the stage, Underwood dressed in a stunning sparkly gown. Underwood sang a classic hymn, “How Great Thou Art.” Anyone who has heard Underwood sing the classic hymn knows that it is her peak performance. She was probably at her finest as she closed up Idol’s “Songs of Faith” segment with “How Great Thou Art.”
“I have no words after that!” presenter Ryan Seacrest shouted as the audience went crazy for her.
Watch Carrie Underwood’s wonderful performance on the American Idol Easter special below. Hearing her sing “How Great Thou Art” will always give us shivers and bring us to tears.