In a moment full of portent, Carrie Underwood's rendition of America the Beautiful didn't go off as planned. Due to a technical glitch (or perhaps some backstage subterfuge), a recording of the song by a military band chirped on briefly, and then, silence.

For nearly two minutes, the silence grew more awkward. Then Underwood said, "If you know the words, help me out here", and launched into the patriotic classic.

Now that is a flex. Imagine being so talented that when technology fails, you just go, “Fine, I’ll do it live!” and crush it a cappella in front of thousands. Carrie Underwood doesn’t need auto-tune; auto-tune probably takes notes from her.

Also, let’s just appreciate the… pic.twitter.com/OjYd5yoCV6

— Johnny 2.0 (@johnny_ver_2) January 20, 2025

It felt as if that moment was the symbolic transition of power. From dysfunction to action. From fear and nervousness to boldness. American can-do spirit, a rejection of the technical in favor of the genuine. And she sounded amazing, her voice growing more full and powerful with every line.

See the full performance below:

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