Introduction
Country music royalty lit up the stage at the CMA Summer Jam when Carrie Underwood and Dwight Yoakam delivered a fiery, crowd-pleasing performance of Yoakam’s legendary hit “Guitars, Cadillacs.” The unexpected duet was one of the night’s most talked-about moments, blending classic honky-tonk swagger with powerhouse modern vocals in a show-stopping display of talent and energy.
The performance opened with the unmistakable twang of electric guitars, instantly setting the tone for what would become a tribute to country music’s golden era. Dwight Yoakam strode onto the stage in his signature look — tight jeans, cowboy boots, and a wide-brimmed hat — looking every bit the country outlaw he’s been for over four decades. Seconds later, Carrie Underwood joined him, radiating star power in a glittering outfit that shimmered under the stage lights.
As the two launched into “Guitars, Cadillacs,” the crowd exploded with cheers. Yoakam’s unmistakable drawl delivered the song’s opening lines with confidence and grit, while Underwood’s vocals added a fresh, soaring dimension that took the performance to new heights. The contrast between their voices — Yoakam’s rough-edged honky-tonk style and Carrie’s pristine, powerhouse range — created a dynamic harmony that electrified the atmosphere.
Originally released in 1986, “Guitars, Cadillacs” is one of Dwight Yoakam’s signature songs, a rebellious anthem that helped usher in a new era of country music with its mix of rockabilly attitude and classic Bakersfield sound. Watching Carrie Underwood perform it alongside him wasn’t just exciting — it felt symbolic. It was a bridge between generations, a nod of respect from one of country’s brightest modern stars to a legend who helped redefine the genre.
Midway through the performance, the two artists traded playful glances, clearly enjoying the moment. Carrie threw in a few ad-libbed vocal runs that made the crowd go wild, while Dwight responded with a few fancy footwork moves — a reminder that even at this stage of his career, he’s still got plenty of swagger to spare.
Social media lit up almost instantly. Fans praised the performance as “pure country magic” and “a once-in-a-lifetime duet.” One Twitter user wrote, “Carrie singing Guitars, Cadillacs with Dwight Yoakam was not on my 2025 bingo card — but I’m so glad it happened!”
After the final chorus rang out and the crowd roared with applause, Yoakam tipped his hat to Carrie, thanking her with a smile. She responded, “It’s such an honor to share the stage with a legend like you.” The moment was heartfelt, genuine — and unforgettable.
Their performance of “Guitars, Cadillacs” at CMA Summer Jam was more than just a collaboration; it was a celebration of country music’s roots and its future. A night when two icons, from different corners of the genre, came together to remind us all why country music still matters