After 10 years in the spotlight, country-music star Carrie Underwood is still enjoying herself, still growing and still staying true to who she is. But these personal accomplishments are not easy, even when you’re living a dream come true.
Oklahoma!
Growing up in small-town Oklahoma, Underwood currently lives a life that is many miles removed from her childhood, literally and figuratively. She grew up comfortably on a cattle farm, but her interest in performing was clear from the beginning as she sang in church and talent shows. Proving to be a more than competent singer, she was offered a record deal at 14, though it fell through.
“This country girl’s going to Hollywood!”
Underwood’s proper music career began with her audition on the TV singing competition American Idol at age 21 in 2005. After impressing the judges, Underwood competed in Hollywood. Show producer Simon Cowell made a prediction: “Not only will you win this show, you will sell more records than any other previous Idol winner.” Indeed, Underwood did win that year’s competition and has managed to outsell even Idol winner Kelly Clarkson. |