Carrie Underwood Brings the House Down With “Alone” — 20 Years After Simon Cowell’s Legendary Prediction

Two decades after her showstopping performance turned her from a small-town girl into a national sensation, Carrie Underwood returned to the American Idol stage to recreate the magic that changed her life forever. On Sunday night’s “Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night,” Carrie honored one of her most iconic moments by singing “Alone” — the Heart classic that helped define her as a future superstar back in 2005.

When she first sang the track during Season 4’s Top 11 week, Carrie thought she might be taking too big of a risk. Known as the season’s country darling, she wasn’t sure how the judges — or America — would respond to her tackling an ‘80s rock powerhouse ballad. “This week I’m just gonna throw caution to the wind,” she remembered thinking, even writing in her journal that it could cost her. But instead of disappointment, she got one of the boldest endorsements in Idol history. Simon Cowell, not exactly famous for his generosity, made a prediction: not only would Carrie win the season, but she would go on to sell more records than any Idol before her.

Simon was right. Carrie went on to win American Idol and became one of the most successful music artists of her generation, selling over 85 million albums and winning countless awards. Returning to the stage 20 years later, her performance of “Alone” felt like a full-circle moment — a breathtaking reminder of how one fearless choice launched a legacy. The emotion in the room was undeniable as Carrie belted out the song that had once introduced her to the world, sounding stronger and more sure of herself than ever. For longtime fans and new viewers alike, it was a spine-tingling testament to how far dreams can take you — and how some moments never lose their power.