ST.BREAKING NEWS: Carrie Underwood Names “Jesus, Take the Wheel” as the Song That Defined Her Career
One song made her a superstar. Another defined her soul.
And Carrie Underwood says she didn’t realize at the time just how much it would change everything.
Carrie Underwood Reveals the Song She’s Most Proud Of — And How It Opened the Door to Singing About Faith
Carrie Underwood has no shortage of hits. From fiery revenge anthems to soaring power ballads, her catalog spans nearly two decades of chart dominance.
But when asked which song she’s most proud of — the one that truly shaped her career — her answer wasn’t the sassiest or the loudest.
It was spiritual.
During an appearance on Good Morning America on August 2, Underwood reflected on the defining moments of her journey — and named the song that opened the door for her to boldly sing about faith: “Jesus, Take the Wheel.”
The Song That Changed Everything
While discussing her favorite songs to perform live, Underwood first gave a nod to fan favorite “Before He Cheats,” the fiery breakout single from her 2005 debut album Some Hearts.
“People really get into ‘Before He Cheats’ and sing it super loud and sassy,” she said with a playful snap of her fingers.
But when the conversation turned to the song she’s most proud of, her tone shifted.
“For me, it’s ‘Jesus, Take the Wheel,’” she shared. “I feel like that set up an entire career of being able to sing songs about faith.”
At the time, she didn’t fully grasp the impact.
“I didn’t even realize how important it was,” she admitted. “But I’ve since gotten to make a gospel album and sing songs like that. I feel like that’s what started it all.”
Released in 2005, the emotional ballad became a massive hit, holding the No. 1 spot for weeks and resonating deeply with listeners across the country. It wasn’t just a commercial success — it was a cultural moment.
“That’s when I felt like I arrived,” Underwood said with a laugh.
Looking back, it wasn’t just a breakthrough single.
It was a statement.
From Idol Winner to Idol Judge
Underwood’s reflections come at a pivotal time in her career. The 2004 American Idol winner is returning to the show — this time as a judge, replacing Katy Perry after a long search for a new panelist.
For Underwood, stepping back onto the Idol stage feels like coming home.
But now, she’s on the other side of the table.
And when asked what kind of judge she’ll be, she didn’t hesitate.
“I can’t lie,” she said plainly. “You can tell.”
She explained that honesty will define her approach — but not cruelty.
“I feel like I’ll be very honest, but hopefully I can be very constructive and encouraging.”
It suggests a balance between the brutally candid style of former judge Simon Cowell and the consistently positive tone of Lionel Richie. Some fans have criticized recent seasons for being too gentle, arguing contestants need sharper feedback to grow.
Underwood may be the reset button.
A Career Built on Conviction
From belting out “Before He Cheats” to delivering faith-driven ballads, Carrie Underwood’s career has always blended power with purpose.
But in her own words, it was “Jesus, Take the Wheel” that unlocked the freedom to fully embrace that side of her artistry.
It wasn’t just a hit.
It was permission.
Permission to sing about faith.
Permission to be unapologetic.
Permission to build a career that reflects who she truly is.
Nearly twenty years later, she’s still reaping the rewards of that moment — and preparing to shape the next generation of voices.
One thing is certain: whether she’s onstage, in the studio, or behind the judges’ desk, Carrie Underwood isn’t pretending to be anything she’s not.
And that honesty?
That may be her most powerful song yet.
