Randy Travis Calls Carrie Underwood One of the Greatest Voices in Country Music
Country legend Randy Travis has always been known for his deep respect for authenticity in country music — and according to his wife, Mary Travis, few artists today embody that more than Carrie Underwood. In a recent interview with WUOB, Mary shared that Randy holds Underwood in the highest regard, considering her among the greatest singers the genre has ever produced.
A Friendship Rooted in Music
The friendship between Randy and Carrie dates back nearly two decades. In 2007, Underwood recorded a heartfelt cover of Travis’ 1988 hit “I Told You So” for her second album, Carnival Ride. The collaboration blossomed into something special a year later when Travis joined her for a duet version of the song.
That duet went on to top the country charts and earned them a GRAMMY Award for Best Country Collaboration at the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards — a moment that cemented their musical bond.
A Grand Ole Opry Surprise
One of the most memorable moments in their friendship came in 2008 on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. After Carrie delivered an emotional performance of “I Told You So,” Travis surprised her by inviting her to become a member of the Opry family — one of the highest honors in country music.
They reunited the following year to perform their duet live on American Idol during the show’s Grand Ole Opry-themed week, bringing their story full circle.
Randy’s Admiration for Carrie and Trisha
In her interview, Mary shared that Randy has always admired powerful female voices — and Carrie Underwood ranks at the very top of that list.
“Carrie and Randy have had such a fun history ever since she was on American Idol,” Mary said. “She re-cut ‘I Told You So,’ and their duet won a Grammy Award. Randy said Carrie Underwood has one of the greatest voices in country music — her and Trisha Yearwood.”
Mary also noted that Randy himself was the one who personally invited Carrie to join the Opry, a moment he still holds dear.
A Timeless Opry Moment
Fans still talk about one of the most touching moments between the two — Carrie’s performance of “Forever and Ever, Amen” during the NBC special celebrating the Opry’s 100th Anniversary.
As she sang, Carrie made her way into the audience, where Randy was sitting. When she reached him, she handed him the microphone so he could sing the song’s final word: “Amen.”
Mary recalled the unforgettable scene:
“The producers of the show wanted to do this. We didn’t know how things were going to pan out, but Carrie did it so naturally. I think it shocked everybody when she walked down. I think it’ll go down in history as one of those timeless moments. She has a heart of gold.”
Randy Travis’ Ongoing Legacy
More than a decade after his 2013 stroke, which doctors said left him with less than a 1% chance of survival, Randy Travis continues to defy the odds. Though he lives with aphasia, affecting his ability to speak, he remains active in the country music world — attending events, mentoring artists, and even touring.
Fans can experience his enduring legacy through the More Life Tour, featuring his original touring band and special guest vocalist James Dupré. The show blends live music, storytelling, and career-spanning video moments, offering a moving tribute to one of country music’s most cherished voices.
Randy Travis’ admiration for Carrie Underwood isn’t just about her talent — it’s about shared values, deep faith, and a love for the kind of country music that touches the soul.