Former American Idol winner and country standout Carrie Underwood returns better than ever on her second single of 2018, powerhouse ballad “Cry Pretty.”

Throughout the latter half of the 00s, Carrie Underwood was one of country music’s hottest commodities.  The victor of the fourth season of American Idol proved herself to be the total package – looks, voice, and artistryin itself.  While Underwood’s numbers have dwindled since her heyday, she remains a force in country music, not to mention a capable country-pop crossover artist.  Once more she exhibits superb musicianship on her second single of 2018 (following “The Champion” featuring Ludacris), “Cry Pretty.”  Notably, this single reflects upon the aftermath of facial surgery Underwood had following a bad accident – coping with insecurity.

The pulse of “Cry Pretty” is initially carried by guitar, panned to the right.  Drums and bass arrive later, confirming the lilting, six-eight meter.  After showcasing restraint on the first verse, Carrie Underwood reaches a fever pitch on the powerhouse chorus.

“You can pretty lie and say it’s okay
You can pretty smile and just walk away
Pretty much fake your way through anything
But you can’t cry pretty.”

Complementing her soaring vocals is dynamic, ‘souped-up’ production work.  This is country music (as opposed to country-pop) in the hands of one of its more skilled singers.  Underwood shows off some incredibly sick vocals, incorporating falsetto, grit, runs, and whelps.  By the end, Underwood ‘lets her rip,’ and it’s nothing short of glorious.  You can feel the authenticity.

Final Thoughts 

At this point, Carrie Underwood isn’t going to reinvent the country wheel, or any wheel for that matter. That said, in 2018 alone, Underwood is on a serious flex-fest.  After showing off the power of her voice on “The Champion,” she’s much a more compelling champ on “Cry Pretty.” There is no shame in the game of a 35-year old Carrie Underwood.

Carrie Underwood • Cry Pretty – Single • Capitol Nashville • Release: 4.11.18

Writers: Carrie Underwood, Hillary Lindsey, Liz Rose & Lori McKenna « Producers: Carrie Underwood & David Garcia

Photo Credits: Capitol Nashville