Carrie Underwood
September 1, 2023
Ravinia Festival, Highland Park, IL
Photos and Review by Anita Maree
Carrie Underwood, the queen of country music, graced Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL, and she did not disappoint. With a voice that can move mountains and a stage presence that’s second to none, Underwood delivered a performance that left the audience spellbound.
The night began with Carrie taking stage with her band and guitar in hand performing Church Bells, and that set the stage for an incredible night of country favorites. Looking around, Ravinia’s gift shops must have sold the most cowboy hats that lit up than ever before. It was great to see the hats and the sea of cowboy boots on thousands of her fans.
Carrie performed other songs including “Blown Away,” “Undo It,” “Southbound,” and “See You Again”. Other crowd favorites included, “All-American Girl”, “Cowboy Casanova,” “Good Girl,” and “Two Black Cadillacs.” Her vocals were flawless, effortlessly hitting high notes and her impressive range and control were on full display throughout the evening, reminding us why she’s one of the most celebrated voices in the industry.
What truly sets Carrie Underwood apart is her ability to connect with her audience. She shared personal stories and anecdotes between songs, making it feel like an intimate gathering of friends. Her genuine and warm personality shone through as she interacted with fans, making everyone feel like they were a part of something special.
The set list was a perfect blend of her classic hits and songs from her latest album, ensuring that both long-time fans and newcomers had something to cherish. Highlights of the evening included soul-stirring renditions of “Before He Cheats,” “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” and “Something in the Water.” Her emotional performance of “Cry Pretty” left not a dry eye in the house, showcasing her incredible ability to convey raw emotion through her music.
The production values were nothing short of spectacular. The lighting, visuals, and choreography were all top-notch and added an extra layer of excitement to the already incredible show. The backing band and vocalists were incredibly talented, creating a seamless musical experience that left no room for disappointment.
In a world where live music has the power to heal, inspire, and unite, Carrie Underwood’s concert at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL was a shining example of the magic that happens when a gifted artist takes the stage. Her powerful voice, charismatic presence, and genuine connection with her fans left all with a sense of gratitude for being a part of this musical journey. Carrie Underwood truly is a superstar, and her performance last night will be etched in our memories for years to come. Huge thank you to Carrie Underwood for letting Unrated Magazine attend and provide photos with this exclusive concert review. Another huge thanks to the beautiful outdoor venue Ravinia Festival for the wonderful hospitality.
