Carrie Marie Underwood (born March 10, 1983 in Muskogee, Oklahoma) is a three-time Grammy Award-winning singer that rose to fame as the winner of the fourth season of American Idol. She has become a multi-platinum selling recording artist. Her debut album, Some Hearts, was certified seven times platinum and is the fastest selling debut country album in Nielsen SoundScan history. Some Hearts yielded three number one hits on the country charts in the United States and Canada: "Jesus, Take the Wheel","Wasted," and her biggest hit to date, "Before He Cheats". Additionally "Don't Forget to Remember Me" topped the charts in Canada. Underwood scored another Top 10 Billboard hit with her charity single, "I'll Stand by You". Some Hearts sold a total of 7 million RIAA-certified copies as of February 2008. In addition to being the best selling album by an American Idol contestant in the United States to date, it is also the best-selling solo female debut album in country music history.
Her second album, Carnival Ride, was released on October 23, 2007. It has so far sold about 3 million copies and has produced three number one country hits, "So Small", "All-American Girl", and "Last Name". Underwood's Christmas single, "Do You Hear What I Hear?" peaked at #2 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts.
Aside from her vocals, Underwood's success is attributed to what many fans recognize as her wholesome image. In general, many of her songs also present inspirational and uplifting themes and messages. To date, Underwood has sold over 12 million records worldwide.
She is the first country artist in music history to have her first 7 singles top the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
She was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry on May 10, 2008.