Carrie Underwood is one of the most successful and accomplished country music stars of our time. She first rose to fame after winning the fourth season of American Idol in 2005, and has since sold millions of records and won numerous awards, including seven Grammy Awards. Over the years, she has become known for her powerhouse vocals, inspiring lyrics, and captivating performances. In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best Carrie Underwood songs of all time, showcasing some of her most memorable and impactful tracks throughout her career.
From her early hits like “Before He Cheats” and “Jesus, Take the Wheel” to more recent hits like “Cry Pretty” and “Love Wins,” Carrie Underwood has consistently delivered chart-topping hits that have resonated with fans around the world. Her music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, empowerment, and faith, and her powerful voice and emotional performances have helped her connect with listeners on a deep and personal level. Whether you’re a die-hard Carrie Underwood fan or simply enjoy good country music, this list is sure to provide you with some of the best and most iconic songs from one of the greatest country artists of our time.
1. If I Didn’t Love You
“If I Didn’t Love You” is a heartfelt country ballad sung by Carrie Underwood and featuring guest vocals from fellow country star Jason Aldean. The song tells the story of a couple who have fallen out of love and are struggling to find the strength to walk away from their relationship. The lyrics explore the complex emotions that come with the end of a relationship, including regret, sadness, and the fear of being alone. Underwood’s powerful vocals and Aldean’s soulful harmonies blend together seamlessly, creating a poignant and emotional duet that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever experienced heartbreak. The song is a standout track from Underwood’s latest album, “My Savior: Live From The Ryman,” which features a collection of hymns and spiritual songs.
2. The Fighter
“The Fighter” is an upbeat and empowering duet sung by Carrie Underwood and featuring vocals from pop superstar Keith Urban. The song is a celebration of love and the strength that comes from standing by someone through the ups and downs of life. The lyrics are filled with metaphors of fighting and battling, comparing the challenges of love to a boxing match or a firefight. Underwood’s powerful vocals and Urban’s signature guitar riffs come together to create a catchy and energetic track that is sure to get listeners on their feet. The music video features Underwood and Urban dancing and singing in a boxing ring, adding to the song’s theme of strength and resilience. “The Fighter” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Country Duo/Group Performance.
3. Mama’s Song
“Mama’s Song” is a touching country ballad sung by Carrie Underwood that tells the story of a daughter reassuring her mother that she has found true love and is ready to start her own family. The song’s lyrics are filled with gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifices and guidance that the mother has provided throughout the daughter’s life. Underwood’s heartfelt vocals are accompanied by gentle guitar strums and a simple yet beautiful melody that perfectly captures the emotions of the song. The music video features Underwood walking down the aisle on her wedding day, with glimpses of her mother looking on with tears in her eyes. “Mama’s Song” is a tribute to the unbreakable bond between a mother and daughter and a celebration of the milestones that mark a family’s journey through life.
4. Cowboy Casanova
“Cowboy Casanova” is a feisty and catchy country-pop song sung by Carrie Underwood. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman who sees through the charming facade of a “cowboy casanova” and refuses to fall for his tricks. The lyrics are filled with metaphors and playful jabs, showcasing Underwood’s signature sass and confidence. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious chorus make it a perfect anthem for anyone who has been burned by a smooth-talking player. The music video features Underwood performing the song in a wild and colorful carnival setting, complete with dancing clowns and neon lights. “Cowboy Casanova” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning a nomination for Single of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards.
5. Blown Away
“Blown Away” is a haunting and powerful country ballad sung by Carrie Underwood. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a young woman trapped in an abusive and tumultuous household, who finds solace and strength in the midst of a devastating tornado. The song’s powerful imagery and emotional vocals make it a standout track from Underwood’s discography. The music video features Underwood performing the song in a stormy and chaotic setting, with images of destruction and resilience intercut throughout. “Blown Away” was a critical and commercial success, earning Underwood a Grammy nomination for Best Country Song and reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song is a testament to the power of music to tell stories of survival and strength in the face of adversity.
6. Before He Cheats
“Before He Cheats” is a classic country-pop song sung by Carrie Underwood that has become one of her most iconic tracks. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman who seeks revenge on her cheating boyfriend by destroying his car with a baseball bat. The lyrics are filled with clever wordplay and catchy hooks, showcasing Underwood’s talent for crafting memorable and relatable songs. The song’s upbeat tempo and rock-influenced instrumentation make it a crowd-pleaser at concerts and parties alike. The music video features Underwood singing the song in a dive bar, interspersed with scenes of the cheating boyfriend’s car being smashed to pieces. “Before He Cheats” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and winning multiple awards, including two Grammys. The song is a timeless anthem of female empowerment and a reminder that revenge is a dish best served with a Louisville Slugger.
7. Just a Dream
“Just a Dream” is a heartbreaking country ballad sung by Carrie Underwood that tells the story of a young bride who loses her soldier husband in combat. The song’s lyrics explore the devastating impact of war on families and the power of love to transcend even death. Underwood’s powerful vocals and the song’s soaring chorus make it an emotional and poignant tribute to the sacrifices made by military families. The music video features Underwood singing the song in a white dress, interspersed with scenes of the young couple’s courtship and eventual separation. “Just a Dream” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning a nomination for Best Female Country Vocal Performance at the Grammys. The song is a tribute to the courage and resilience of military families and a reminder of the true cost of war.
8. Church Bells
“Church Bells” is a powerful country song sung by Carrie Underwood that tells the story of a woman who marries a wealthy and abusive man, only to find freedom and justice in the end. The song’s lyrics explore themes of domestic violence, class struggle, and the resilience of the human spirit. Underwood’s strong vocals and the song’s driving beat make it a standout track from her discography. The music video features Underwood performing the song in a dimly lit barn, interspersed with scenes of the main character’s tumultuous and ultimately triumphant journey. “Church Bells” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning a nomination for Best Country Solo Performance at the Grammys. The song is a powerful statement on the need for love, justice, and compassion in a world that can often be cruel and unjust.
9. Smoke Break
“Smoke Break” is an upbeat country-rock song sung by Carrie Underwood that celebrates the joys of hard work, perseverance, and the occasional indulgence. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman who takes a break from the grind of everyday life to enjoy a cigarette and reflect on the challenges and rewards of chasing her dreams. Underwood’s strong vocals and the song’s catchy melody make it a standout track from her discography. The music video features Underwood performing the song in a gritty and industrial setting, interspersed with scenes of people from all walks of life taking a moment to pause and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. “Smoke Break” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning a nomination for Best Country Solo Performance at the Grammys. The song is a reminder to work hard, play hard, and savor the little moments that make life worth living.
10. Cry Pretty
“Cry Pretty” is a powerful and emotional country ballad sung by Carrie Underwood that explores the pain and vulnerability of showing one’s true emotions. The song’s lyrics describe the struggle of trying to keep up appearances and hide one’s tears, even in the face of heartbreak and loss. Underwood’s strong vocals and the song’s haunting melody make it a standout track from her discography. The music video features Underwood singing the song in a dramatic and dark setting, with scenes of broken mirrors and shattered glass symbolizing the shattered illusions of perfection. “Cry Pretty” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning a nomination for Best Country Solo Performance at the Grammys. The song is a powerful reminder that it’s okay to show vulnerability and that true strength comes from facing our emotions head-on.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
