Carrie Underwood (born 1983) has risen to prominence in the country and pop scene since winning the 4th season of American Idol in 2005. Underwood released her debut record Some Hearts, featuring the top hits "Jesus Take the Wheel" and "Before He Cheats". She followed it up with Carnival Ride in 2007, from which "All-American Girl", "Flat on the Floor" and "Last Name" have received heavy airplay. A third album is due in late 2009.
Underwood has been well received on the award scene, winning 4 Grammys (including Best New Artist in 2007), 4 Country Music awards, and 4 Academy of Country Music awards including Entertainer of the Year in 2009.