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Carrie Underwood Says She Nearly Passed on 'Before He Cheats' as Hit Marks 20 Years

Two decades on, the Grammy-winning breakthrough still packs venues, with her return to the American Idol judges’ table set for Jan. 26.

Overview

  • Underwood says she almost skipped recording the revenge anthem because it felt “too aggressive” for the “sweet farm girl” image fans knew from American Idol.
  • The track first appeared on Some Hearts in 2005, was re-released as a single in 2006, and later won a Grammy for Best Female Country Vocal Performance.
  • She reflects that taking the risk “worked,” noting its lasting popularity, including her 6-year-old recently discovering the music video at home.
  • She has been bringing early catalog songs back into recent shows and says her voice, songwriting, and performance abilities have grown.
  • She returns as a judge with Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie when American Idol season 24 premieres on ABC on Monday, Jan. 26.