Country music superstar Carrie Underwood grew up in Checotah and graduated high school in 2001. While attending Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Underwood catapulted to widespread stardom when she won the reality singing competition American Idol in 2005.
Following her win on American Idol, Underwood released her debut album, Some Hearts, in 2005, which won two Grammy Awards in 2007. Following the success of Some Hearts, Underwood released eight additional albums: Carnival Ride, Play On, Blown Away, Storyteller, Cry Pretty, a Christmas album titled My Gift, My Savior, and her most recent album, Denim and Rhinestones. Underwood also released a Greatest Hits album in 2014.
Underwood has performed six total music tours since 2006. She has won various awards and Grammys for her songs. Sixteen singles have topped the Billboard Country Airplay, while 14 topped the Hot Country Songs. Some of these hits include "Blown Away", "Church Bells", "Undo It", and "Little Toy Guns", to name a few. In addition to various awards and hit songs, Underwood debuted a fitness apparel company, Calia. In 2020, Underwood also released a self-help book titled Find Your Path: Honor Your Body, Fuel Your Soul, and Get Strong with the Fit52 Life. Despite her world-fame, Underwood has never forgot her small town roots. In 2009, she founded the Checotah Animal, Town and School Foundation. Underwood's philanthropic spirit continues today as she supports causes pertaining to musical literacy, cancer research, disaster relief, and more.
Want to hear more?
Click below to listen to Carrie Underwood's song, "The Champion," featuring Ludacris.