Carrie Underwood and Vince Gill Perform “How Great Thou Art” – A Defining Moment in Modern Country Music
On April 4, 2011, during the ACM Presents: Girls Night Out event in Las Vegas, Carrie Underwood and Vince Gill joined forces for a stirring performance of “How Great Thou Art” that would go on to become one of the most beloved moments in contemporary country music. Later broadcast on CBS, the duet quickly earned legendary status among fans and fellow artists alike.
Carrie opened the hymn with a quiet strength that instantly commanded attention. Her voice, clear and powerful, carried a reverent energy that set the stage for what would become an emotionally charged performance. As the song swelled, Vince Gill joined in with warm harmonies and delicate guitar work, creating a blend of sound that left the audience mesmerized.
Following the broadcast, the performance exploded online, gaining millions of views and becoming a viral favorite on YouTube. Viewers around the world shared their reactions, often describing the duet as “goosebump-inducing” and “spiritually overwhelming.” Its digital popularity even earned it a spot on Underwood’s 2014 compilation album Greatest Hits: Decade #1.
Though the hymn has been interpreted by many artists since its translation from Swedish into English, few renditions have carried the emotional weight and vocal intensity of this one. Carrie and Vince offered a version that was both deeply personal and universally moving, introducing the song to new listeners while honoring its spiritual roots.
This wasn’t the first time Underwood and Gill had collaborated, but many consider it their most iconic pairing. Their mutual respect and seamless musical connection were palpable throughout the performance, elevating the song to new heights and etching the moment permanently into the memory of country music history.
The success of the duet also reflected gospel music’s continued relevance within the country genre. Carrie and Vince demonstrated how a classic hymn could be reimagined for a modern audience without losing its original message. Their performance bridged the gap between generations, reaffirming the timeless power of faith-based music.
Both artists have continued to explore spiritual themes in their work since that night. Carrie’s 2021 gospel album My Savior was inspired by traditional hymns like “How Great Thou Art,” while Vince Gill has long been known for integrating gospel influences into his songwriting and performances.
The performance’s impact extended far beyond the music world. It has been played at weddings, funerals, and church services, speaking to its deep emotional resonance. For many, the version by Carrie and Vince has become the definitive rendition, offering comfort, hope, and spiritual strength.
Critics frequently point to this performance as one of the finest live collaborations in country music. The emotional delivery, technical brilliance, and mutual humility onstage serve as a masterclass in how to interpret a sacred song without overshadowing its meaning.
The ripple effect of that night has inspired countless other artists to revisit traditional hymns. Carrie and Vince set a high bar—not just vocally, but in how to approach spiritual music with reverence and authenticity. Their influence can be felt in performances by both emerging talents and seasoned pros.
Carrie has spoken openly about what the song means to her. In interviews, she has described performing it with Vince as one of the greatest honors of her career. She often points to the emotional connection she felt with both the audience and the music. Vince has expressed similar sentiments, praising Carrie’s voice and the beauty of the moment they shared.
Even years later, the duet continues to resonate. Fans still share the video online, introduce it to new generations, and recall the night with a sense of awe. It’s more than just a performance—it’s a reminder of how music can touch hearts and stir souls across time.
Outside the realm of country music, the performance has made waves in wider cultural conversations. It’s been referenced in discussions about the role of faith in art, the impact of live television specials, and the emotional influence of shared musical experiences.
Their collaboration showed that a timeless song can be reborn through fresh voices and heartfelt interpretation. It proved that even a familiar hymn can take on new meaning when approached with sincerity and depth. Carrie and Vince didn’t just sing “How Great Thou Art”—they lived it onstage.
Looking back, this performance is more than a highlight reel moment. It’s a testament to the transformative power of music and its ability to connect people across belief systems, generations, and borders. Carrie Underwood and Vince Gill’s rendition of “How Great Thou Art” remains one of the most treasured musical events of the 21st century.
