The 2024 CMA Awards promised unforgettable moments, but no one could have predicted Carrie Underwood’s jaw-dropping surprise appearance. In a night already brimming with star power and emotional performances, the country icon’s unannounced duet with Cody Johnson was a standout that had fans buzzing.
Underwood, dressed in a striking western-inspired ensemble featuring a leather vest and a white fringe and lace dress, commanded the stage at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
Together with Cody Johnson, she delivered a soul-stirring rendition of “I’m Gonna Love You,” leaving the star-studded crowd — and viewers at home — in awe.
What made this moment even more poignant was its unexpected nature. For the first time in her illustrious career, Underwood wasn’t nominated for a CMA Award.
Many assumed this meant she would sit out the event entirely, especially since she wasn’t listed as a performer. But in true Carrie fashion, she proved she’s never one to fade into the background, even when not competing for awards.
Social media erupted with praise for the performance. One fan tweeted, “Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood just made me remember why I used to love the CMAs growing up,” capturing the sentiment shared by many.
The night had its highs and lows, with other performances like Chris Stapleton’s collaboration with Post Malone receiving mixed reviews. While Stapleton’s powerful vocals are a CMA staple, the audience seemed less enthused about Post Malone’s country debut, sparking debate online.
Elsewhere in the evening, Lainey Wilson shone brightly, taking home Female Vocalist of the Year, while Cody Johnson secured Album of the Year for “Leather.”
Newcomer Megan Moroney also had her moment in the spotlight, winning New Artist of the Year and performing her breakout hit, “Am I Okay?”
Despite the evening’s star-studded lineup, it was Underwood’s surprise performance that lingered in everyone’s minds. In a year where she wasn’t even in the running, Carrie Underwood reminded us all why she’s still one of country music’s reigning queens.
