American Idol 2025: Carrie Underwood reboots classic “Alone” cover from 2005
American Idol season 4 winner Carrie Underwood is now a judge on the show. Season 23 has featured a bunch of call backs to Carrie’s journey on the show 20 years ago. One of the biggest and most memorable of those call backs had the country singer take the stage Sunday (April 27) to perform a cover of Heart’s “Alone.”
Back in 2005, covering the rock classic was a big moment for the singer. It proved that Carrie could use her big belting vocals to slay a rock classic. Ann Wilson from Heart is a one of a kind singer, and only the best vocalists dare cover her songs. But Carrie made it look easy.
Carrie hasn’t lost a step in 20 years when it comes to hitting the high notes. Some singers lose their upper register as they move into their 40s. Not Carrie. She must have her ENT doc on speed dial and follow a stringent vocal care routine.
Check out her performance from the American Idol Top 14 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame show below. At the end of the episode, two contestants were cut. (Read our Recap)
For fun, Carrie dressed up like one of her heavy metal heros, and occasional duet partner, Axl Rose from Guns N Roses.
Simon Cowell predicted Carrie Underwood’s future: “Not only will you win this show, but you will sell more records than any other previous Idol winner”
Now, go back in time and watch the 21 year old American Idol contestant, Carrie Underwood, sing “Alone” on the Idol stage sporting VERY BIG HAIR.
After her knockout performance, the judges were full of praise. Randy Jackson said, “I think this is one of your best performances yet. You were unbelievable tonight. Carrie has finally come alive. Beautiful.” Next, Paula Abdul mentioned that she had the “wonderful opportunity” to work with Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart on the “Alone” video. She added, “Talk about taking risks. To take on Ann and Nancy Wilson brilliantly, my hat is off to you.”
Of course, in those days, the only critique that mattered was from Simon Cowell. Carrie looked anxious as he began to speak. But she didn’t need to worry. “Carrie you’re not just the girl to be, but the person to be.” And then Simon made his infamous prediction, that came true. “Not only will you win this show, but you will sell more records than any other previous Idol winner.” When Ryan Seacrest asked the singer how she felt, Carrie responded, “Somebody pinch me!”
American Idol airs on ABC Sundays and Mondays at 8 pm ET, streaming next day on HULU
