A few weeks ago, while at a party, the topic of music was brought up. Being asked my favorite artist, I proudly announced that Carrie Underwood was my all-time favorite.
One of the girls scoffed and accused Underwood of being “talentless.” Anyone who knows anything about me quickly realized the poor girl’s mistake and my friend even let out an, “Oh shit.”
Having followed Underwood since her audition for American Idol, hearing someone accuse her of showing absolutely no talent was appalling. I understand that not everyone enjoys her music and style, and that’s fine.
However, it’s important and only fair that talent is recognized regardless. For example, I may not enjoy a specific artist’s music, but I always admit to them being talented even if they’re not quite my cup of tea.
In response to me disagreeing with her, she asked me to hand her the facts. She had no interest in my raw opinion, but instead wished to hear statistics. This girl was determined to prove me wrong.
Fortunately, being the avid fan I am, I knew some interesting information. Underwood is the only female in Academy of Country Music history to win Entertainer of the Year twice, and she did so consecutively.
She is also one of only five artists to ever win the Triple-Crown Award. This elite honor distinguishes achievement in winning Top New Male/Female Vocalist, Top Male/Female Vocalist and Entertainer of the Year.
Underwood is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the female country artist with the most No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, tied only with Reba McEntire.
She is also the only female artist to appear on the Top 10 of Billboard’s Best Country Artists of the 2000 Decade list.
After stating these facts, she still disagreed with Underwood having any talent. Then she tried telling me the only real winner of American Idol was Kelly Clarkson.
I agreed that Clarkson is talented, and deservedly won her season. See what I did there? I acknowledged talent. I never convinced the girl of Underwood’s amazing ability. Her opinion was set in stone, so I let the argument go. To that girl and to anyone who doesn’t listen to Carrie Underwood, you’re seriously missing out.
