Carrie Underwood’s latest release Cry Pretty is her way of taking a subtle risk and standing up for what she believes in without causing too much controversy.
Artists today have the challenge of making music that reflects on today’s issues without discriminating against other views. We live in a world where we have the freedom to speak, dress, and mostly do what we want, but there are many diverse people with diverse beliefs. The ultimate goal is to express one’s own views without insulting others. Society has to be open-minded and accepting, it has to listen to others and even as people form their own opinions they must remain tolerant of people and what they believe in.
Music can send a message and be an outlet for people who are struggling to have something positive to relate to. Carrie Underwood has always been a positive role model for young girls, and lately it seems that promiscuous acts from singers such as Cardi B and Nicki Minaj have put a dent in young girls’ perspective.
Girls today feel as though they have to grow up so fast, and Underwood is a refreshing reminder of innocence and strength. A powerful force to be reckoned with, Underwood sheds light on gun violence with her track “The Bullet,” as well as people coming together in times of division on “Love Wins.”
Underwood makes a subtle political stance on these two tracks without crossing any lines. Instead, she spoke up for working towards a peaceful world and a better tomorrow.
Anytime an artist uses their influences to change the focus from negative to positive, they’re making a difference. Even if the message only reaches one person, one person has the power to make great change. Big changes start in small ways. Regular people can affect change on small platforms but that change doesn’t always stay small. With someone such as Carrie Underwood, their platform allows for that change to evolve into something bigger and reach many people.
Cry Pretty is not only a breakthrough for fans but also for Underwood herself. She stepped out of her comfort zone to produce tracks that have meaning and have the power to affect, change and cultivate all minds. Compared to recent music, Underwood’s latest release is fresh and promotes empowerment, and listening to it is a way for fans to positively reflect on today’s topics and problem.
Rating: 4/5