Carrie Underwood bucks music industry trend

By John Wenzel

The Denver Post

THE MUSIC INDUSTRY has had little to celebrate lately, faced with declining revenues, illegal file sharing and general irrelevance.

But beacons of hope do exist, and one of the brightest of the past three years has been country-pop superstar Carrie Underwood. Bucking the trend of most musicians, Underwood's CD sales and awards have rolled in with regularity. More important, her wholesome image has connected with people in a genuine way, providing an antidote to the slick, forced personas of most would-be pop stars.

"Right after I came off 'American Idol' I used every single opportunity that I could to prove myself," said Underwood. "I consider every vocal performance and every award show the same way."

The winner of the fourth season of "American Idol" and the show's first overtly country singer, Underwood has set a number of records approached only by fellow alumna Kelly Clarkson. Her 2005 debut, "Some Hearts," has moved more than 7 million units - the best-selling album by an "American Idol" contestant, and the best-selling debut by a solo female artist in country music history.

Critics may charge that her songs appeal to a demographic that likes its entertainment with a spoonful of corn syrup, but a glance at her background reveals the integrity and intelligence behind her decisions.

After winning "Idol," the Oklahoma native made it a point to finish her college journalism degree. Add to that her USO tours in Iraq and her cozy relationship with PETA (she's been a vegetarian since age 13), and a more complex portrait of Underwood emerges.

"You might hate me. You might not like the songs that I choose, but hopefully you're going to be able to say, 'OK, she's trying really hard. She's giving it all she's got.' "

Trying - and succeeding.

It came as no surprise last month when the Country Music Association again nominated Underwood for best female vocalist and album of the year, "Carnival Ride." She also is hosting the Nov. 12 broadcast with Brad Paisley, and both will sing.

She also received nominations last week for the American Music Awards, for favorite female country vocalist and favorite country album of the year, "Carnival Ride."

At the ripe old age of 25, Underwood already counts various CMA trophies, Grammys and People's Choice awards among her achievements.

"I don't think there's any one thing that I'm reaching for. I'm just kind of going with it. I've gotten so lucky thus far, so I'd feel guilty wanting more."

Despite that aw-shucks proclamation, Underwood also acknowledged she's interested in expanding her focus.

"There are so many avenues open to artists now that want something to do to break up the monotony. It's not monotonous for me now, but you can look into television avenues and Broadway, or you can find new talent to produce."

Underwood also has the good sense to take others' advice when it's needed.

"I would love to spend more time songwriting," she said, referring to the increasing creative presence on her most recent album, "Carnival Ride." "But I'm not one of those artists that says my songs must be on my album. If they're good enough, they'll be on there, and if they're not, they're not.

"I need constant reassurance (that) what I'm doing is good. Ultimately things are my decision, but you also need people that are in touch with the outside world. I live in a bubble, as much as I fight it, and I feel like the more I have others' opinions around me, the more things will be all right."