Listeners Think Underwood and Gill’s “How Great Thou Art” Is The Best Vocal Performance Of All Time

Carrie Underwood’s performance of “How Great Thou Art” at the 2011 ACM Girls Night Out event stands as a defining moment in her career, showcasing not only her vocal prowess but also her ability to deeply connect with both the song’s spiritual message and her audience. Held on April 4, 2011, this event honored influential women in country music, and Underwood’s rendition of the timeless hymn was nothing short of extraordinary. Accompanied by the legendary Vince Gill on guitar, Underwood’s powerful voice reverberated through the venue, enveloping the audience in a stirring atmosphere of reverence and emotion.

The hymn itself, originally penned by Carl Gustav Boberg in the late 19th century and translated into English, has been covered by numerous artists over the years. However, Underwood’s interpretation has been hailed as exceptional for its sheer vocal strength and emotional depth. As she began singing, supported by Gill’s gentle yet masterful guitar playing, the performance escalated into a transcendent experience. By the climax of the song, with Underwood effortlessly reaching and sustaining the high notes, many in the audience were visibly moved, some even moved to tears by the profound intensity of her delivery.

The impact of Underwood’s rendition was immediate and far-reaching, quickly becoming a viral sensation on platforms like YouTube, where millions viewed and shared the performance. Critics and fans alike lauded her rendition as one of the finest vocal performances in recent memory, highlighting her ability to not only hit remarkable vocal heights but also to convey a deep emotional connection to the song’s lyrics and message.

Born on March 10, 1983, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Carrie Underwood’s journey to stardom began with her victory in the fourth season of American Idol in 2005. Her debut album, “Some Hearts,” released later that year, marked the beginning of a record-breaking career in country music. With hit singles such as “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Before He Cheats,” Underwood quickly established herself as a dominant figure in the genre, earning accolades including seven Grammy Awards and becoming known for her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence.

Vince Gill, born on April 12, 1957, in Norman, Oklahoma, is a celebrated country music artist renowned for his smooth voice and exceptional guitar skills. Throughout his prolific career, Gill has released over 20 studio albums and earned an impressive 22 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most decorated male country artists of all time. His collaboration with Underwood on “How Great Thou Art” at the 2011 ACM Girls Night Out event was a testament to his ability to elevate any musical performance with his instrumental prowess and heartfelt contributions.

The 2011 ACM Girls Night Out event, beyond Underwood and Gill’s memorable collaboration, featured other notable performances, including Rascal Flatts with Reba McEntire and Little Big Town with Martina McBride. Yet, it was Underwood’s soul-stirring rendition that left an indelible mark on the event’s attendees and viewers worldwide. The performance transcended entertainment, becoming a deeply spiritual experience that resonated across diverse audiences and faith backgrounds.

Underwood’s personal connection to “How Great Thou Art” extends beyond this iconic performance. In 2021, she released “My Savior,” a gospel album featuring traditional hymns that hold profound personal significance for her. Raised in a Baptist church in Oklahoma, Underwood attributes her love for singing and her strong faith to her upbringing, adding a poignant layer of authenticity to her renditions of these timeless songs.

Throughout her illustrious career, Carrie Underwood has continued to evolve as an artist, exploring various musical styles while maintaining her signature vocal strength and emotional resonance. Her ability to deliver compelling performances, whether on stage or in the studio, has solidified her status as a beloved figure in the music industry. Her rendition of “How Great Thou Art” with Vince Gill remains a standout moment in her repertoire, symbolizing her exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to connecting with her audience through the power of music.