Carrie Underwood reminisced on some of the first milestones she ever reached in her career after her American Idol victory in 2005.

The powerhouse country star shared a reflection of her musical journey during the 2024 American Music Awards 50th Anniversary Special on Sunday evening (October 6). Performers who took the stage throughout the evening included Brad Paisley (with a tribute to late legend Charley Pride), Kane Brown (with a tribute to beloved country star Alan Jackson), Chaka Khan, Gladys Knight, Green Day, Jennifer Hudson, Mariah Carey, RAYE and Stray Kids, with special appearances by many others.

“It is so special to me that I won the breakthrough artist back in 2006,” Underwood said in a pre-recorded video that aired during the anniversary show, which took place in Los Angeles, California. “You have one shot to get breakthrough awards. It is such an honor to win fan-voted awards. They have always been supportive of me since day one. That’s literally how I got into this business, is from people voting for me. I will look at those awards and just still, my mind is blown.”

Underwood also relived some “surreal” moments from the AMAs over the years, including when legendary musician Slash and late singer-songwriter Scott Weiland presented her with an award in 2007. Underwood has earned 17 American Music Awards throughout her career, per her bio.

Two decades after winning American Idol, Underwood is slated to return to the competition show as a judge, following Katy Perry’s departure. The Denim & Rhinestones hitmaker will reunite with longtime Idol host Ryan Seacrest and join returning judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan. Relive her American Idol journey here.

Brooke Taylor