Carrie Underwood is really phenomenal. She won American Idol in 2005 and has never looked back. Right out of the gate, she was successful as a recording artist, doing concerts, and as a businesswoman. As of March, she will take Katy Perry's place at the judges' table on Idol. Underwood has had hit after hit, and her mantel is sagging under the heft of all her awards. There are a few female vocalists (two of whom have an American Idol pedigree, namely Lauren Alaina and Kellie Pickler) whose styles do closely resemble Underwood's. See what you think!
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3 Songs That Sound Like They're Sung By Carrie Underwood But Aren't
'Like My Mother Does' by Lauren Alaina
Lauren Alaina finished in second place behind Scotty McCreery in 2011 on season 10 of American Idol. Per her web site, she has performed alongside greats such as Underwood, Alan Jackson, and Luke Bryan. Alaina will be with Rascal Flatts on their Life Is A Highway tour. All told, she is enjoying remarkable success post-Idol. Although Taste Of Country's review of "Like My Mother Does" is mixed, it does give Alaina quite bit of credit. "In fact, she soars as the song reaches its peak at the bridge: 'She's a rock / She gives grace / She's an angel / She's my heart and soul / She does it all.' At this point she's just showing off, but throws in a cathartic key change and extra chorus anyway." To me, the theme of this song and the powerful way Alaina sings it truly pay homage to Underwood in the best sense.
'Didn't You Know How Much I Loved You' by Kellie Pickler
Pickler is another gifted Idol alum. She was just 19 when she earned the respect and attention of millions on the show's fifth season. According to the bio on her web site, since then, Pickler has gone on to a stellar recording career, won Dancing With The Stars twelve years ago, and has evolved into a prolific and talented songwriter. Taste Of Country called Pickler "one of contemporary country music's most unlikely traditionalists." On this song, she has an intense, sincere tone that echoes Underwood. When Pickler really lets her voice have free rein, it's Underwood time.
'First Rodeo' by Kelsea Ballerini
It's hard to believe that it's been a decade since Ballerini's freshman album dropped in 2015. She has had one triumph after another in the years since, per her web site bio. Her resume is full of number 1 singles, RIAA certifications, and awards galore. At 31, Tennessee-native Ballerini is leading the pack among the young dynamos of country music. The dreamy track, First Rodeo, is sensual, lush, and mellow. Ballerini sings in the tradition of Underwood, but she is carving her very own path to the top. This delectable tune proves it.
