Carrie Underwood Honored With 2006 Music Row Critics' Pick Award

Nashville, TN (Arista Records) - It was a celebration of Nashville's finest, as noted music trade publication, Music Row, celebrated artists and industry at its annual awards, selecting country sensation Carrie Underwood as its 2006 Critics' Pick Award winner. The Critics' Pick honors an outstanding new artist who has released their first single in the past year.

On tour and appearing that night in concert with Kenny Chesney, Underwood was unable to attend, with SONY BMG Chairman Joe Galante accepting on her behalf at Thursday's celebration, held at the Nashville office of performing rights organization, BMI.

On learning of her award, Carrie enthused, 'I'm very honored to receive this award. The country music industry has truly welcomed me with open arms, and I couldn't have asked for a more blessed year. So thank you Music Row for choosing me as your pick this year! I wish I could have been there and am so glad Joe was able to accept on my behalf. The country music industry has been so gracious to me. Thanks to everyone!'

Carrie's 19 Recordings/Arista Nashville album, Some Hearts, released in November, and became the fastest Triple-Platinum female country debut in history. Earlier this year, Underwood became a two-time ACM Award winner, taking home the trophies for Top New Female Vocalist and Single Record of the Year for her six-week No 1 single, 'Jesus, Take the Wheel.' Carrie is currently in the Top 5 and climbing with her newest smash, 'Don't Forget to Remember Me.'