US.20 YEARS LATER — THE SONG THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING: From small-town dreamer to country music star — Carrie Underwood emotionally reflects on the night that changed her life forever.
Underwood said in an Instagram post that the single “changed my life and has meant so much to me over the years. I’m truly blessed to be able to continue singing this beautiful song.” She credited songwriters Hillary Lindsey, Gordie Sampson and late songwriting legend Brett James, plus producer Mark Bright with bringing the classic country ballad to life.
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Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” appeared on her debut record, Some Hearts, after her career-launching win on American Idol’s fourth season in 2005. The Oklahoma-born singer-songwriter has since returned to the competition show as a judge, joining judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, and reuniting with longtime host Ryan Seacrest. Some Hearts also included “Before He Cheats,” “Wasted” and more. It’s one of many examples of country music turning 20 years old in 2025, along with unforgettable hits by Dierks Bentley, Faith Hill, LeAnn Rimes, Brad Paisley, Miranda Lambert, Kenny Chesney and many other artists. Find a list of country hits turning 20 this year here.
Two decades ago, under the glow of stage lights and trembling hope, a young girl from Oklahoma named Carrie Underwood took the stage — and country music would never be the same again. What began as a nervous performance in a small-town contest became a turning point not just for her, but for millions who saw themselves in her voice.
Today, as Carrie marks the 20th anniversary of the ballad that launched her career, she looks back with tears, gratitude, and awe. “I was just a girl chasing a dream,” she recalls, “but that song… it gave me wings.”
Fans across the world are joining her in celebration — flooding social media with stories of where they were when they first heard that voice, sharing how her lyrics carried them through heartbreak, faith, and triumph.
That one performance wasn’t just the start of a career — it was the birth of an icon. A moment that proved dreams from small towns can echo across generations, and that sometimes, a single song can truly change the world.
✨ “It wasn’t just my beginning,” Carrie says softly. “It was the moment I realized music could change lives — starting with mine.”
