Carrie Underwood is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who first rose to fame as the winner of the fourth season of the television singing competition "American Idol."

Since then, she has become one of the most successful and influential figures in the country music industry.

Underwood was born on March 10, 1983, in Muskogee, Oklahoma. She grew up in a small town, where she was raised by her mother and father, both of whom were teachers.

Underwood began singing in church and school choirs at a young age, and later attended Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, where she studied mass communication.

In 2004, Underwood auditioned for "American Idol," and quickly became a fan favorite with her powerful voice and down-to-earth personality.

After winning the competition, she signed a record deal and released her debut single, "Inside Your Heaven," which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Underwood's debut album, "Some Hearts," was released later that year, and went on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time by a female country artist.

The album spawned several hit singles, including "Jesus, Take the Wheel" and "Before He Cheats," which helped to establish Underwood as a major force in the country music industry.

Over the next decade, Underwood released several more successful albums and singles, and won numerous awards, including seven Grammy Awards and numerous Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music Awards.

She has also crossed over into other genres, collaborating with artists such as Rascal Flatts, Ludacris, and Tony Bennett.

In addition to her music career, Underwood has also ventured into acting, appearing in a number of television shows and films, including "The Sound of Music Live!" and "Soul Surfer."

She has also been involved in various charitable causes, including disaster relief and animal welfare.

Underwood is known for her powerful and emotive singing voice, as well as her wholesome and down-to-earth persona. She has a devoted fan base around the world and is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential figures in the country music industry.

Throughout her career, Underwood has consistently reinvented herself and her music, collaborating with a variety of artists and producers and exploring different styles and genres. She has also used her platform to speak out on important issues, including domestic violence and animal rights.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Underwood has also found personal happiness, marrying former NHL player Mike Fisher in 2010 and welcoming two sons, Isaiah and Jacob.

The couple currently resides on a farm in Tennessee, where they raise their children and participate in various charitable endeavors.