The ‘Before He Cheats’ singer announced some exciting news to fans.

When it comes to surprise announcements, Carrie Underwood knows how to keep fans on their toes—and this time, she’s sharing the spotlight in a way that has the internet buzzing.

The Before He Cheats powerhouse took to social media on July 31 with thrilling news: her duet “If It Was Up To Me” with rising Christian artist Ben Fuller has officially been nominated for a prestigious Dove Award—specifically in the Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year category.

And if you’re not familiar with the Dove Awards, here’s why you should be paying attention: they’re basically the Grammys of Christian and gospel music, and a nomination alone is a huge nod of respect within the industry. So yes—this is a big deal.

Underwood couldn’t contain her excitement as she posted the news to her fans, tagging Fuller in a heartfelt shout-out:

“Congratulations @benfuller on ‘If It Was Up To Me’ being nominated for @GMADoveAwards Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year! So happy we were able to record this special song together! #DoveAwards 🕊️🙌🏻”

It didn’t take long for fans—and Fuller himself—to react.

Fuller, clearly overwhelmed, commented directly under Underwood’s post:

“Well you’ve made it so amazing I can’t sing it without you now!!”

Cue the collective “aww” from the fanbase, because this collaboration has struck a deep emotional chord with listeners. And if you’ve heard the song, you know why. “If It Was Up To Me” is a heartfelt, harmony-rich anthem that blends Fuller’s signature faith-driven grit with Underwood’s haunting vocal strength. It’s not just another duet—it’s a moment.

Fans swarmed the comments section to pour out their support. One wrote,

“Congratulations👏🏻 Such a Beautiful Song 🙏🏻 Y’all sound amazing together 🤍🎶🕊.”

Others chimed in with:

“Congrats, good luck!”
“You both were absolutely amazing singing together.”
“Love this song and duet!”
“Wow, just wow. This is everything.”

And let’s be real—while Underwood is no stranger to chart-topping hits and awards (let’s not forget her American Idol victory and eight Grammy wins), this nomination adds a fresh feather to her cap, marking her growing influence in the Christian and roots music world. It’s a side of her artistry we don’t always get to see—but clearly, fans are here for it.

The nomination places “If It Was Up To Me” alongside other musical heavyweights in the genre, including Jelly Roll and The Isaacs, raising eyebrows and turning heads in both the country and Christian music scenes. Some are even calling it the dark horse contender for the category, with industry insiders noting that Underwood’s massive platform could bring new attention to the Dove Awards in 2025.

So what makes this song—and this moment—so compelling?

For one, the collaboration itself was unexpected. While Underwood has long explored faith themes in her music (think Jesus, Take the Wheel or Something in the Water), teaming up with Fuller, whose background includes personal struggles, redemption, and bold testimonies, feels different. Raw. Vulnerable. Timely.

It also showcases a softer, more spiritual side of Underwood’s vocal delivery—less powerhouse, more prayer. And paired with Fuller’s authenticity, it creates a duet that’s both musically rich and emotionally resonant.

It’s the kind of performance that gives you goosebumps—and apparently, the Dove Awards panel noticed.

As for what’s next? Well, with the awards ceremony just around the corner, the buzz is only getting louder. Will Underwood and Fuller take the stage to perform the nominated song live? Will this open the door for more collaborations between country and Christian artists? And could this signal a full-blown crossover moment for Underwood?

Only time will tell—but for now, one thing’s for sure: Carrie Underwood just reminded us all that she’s not done surprising us yet. Whether it’s belting out vengeance anthems or quietly stirring hearts with gospel-infused duets, she’s a force—and she knows exactly when to strike.

And with the Dove Awards inching closer, all eyes are now on her.