Carrie Underwood won Female Vocalist of the Year at the 2016 American Country Countdown Awards, and to celebrate, she did a fierce version of "Church Bells" that saw her stepping around the stage with a menacing stride -- like a woman scorned. But it was her acceptance speech that really tugged at fans' heartstrings.

Outfit-wise, Underwood went with a Greek goddess-meets-She-Ra vibe. Not only did she sing into a gold cordless microphone with a chainlink design, but she sported similarly colored cuff links and an iridescent top, which she paired with high heels that laced up her legs and a cupcake-fluffy skirt. As per usual, Underwood was flawless, adding just the right amount of cautionary vocal nuance to the vengeful song.

Actor Luke Wilson presented her Female Vocalist award to Underwood, who was slightly out of breath as she made an acceptance speech. After thanking God for country music, Underwood gave kudos to her "entire incredible team, band and crew and all the people I'm lucky enough to get to work with on a daily basis," as well as radio for their long-time support.

However, she saved her biggest gratitude for her loyal followers. "Fans -- fans, fans, fans, fans, fans!" she said, as the crowd cheered. "Thank you guys so much. It's been so much fun seeing you guys out on the road this year. We've just been having fun together."

In one of the most poignant moments of the night, Underwood ended her speech by dedicating the award to Isley Thibodeaux, a 10-year-old girl who died in a car crash on the way home from the singer's recent Lafayette, La., concert.

Other Female Vocalist of the Year nominees included Cam, Jana Kramer, Kelsea Ballerini and Miranda Lambert.

2016 American Country Countdown Awards Red Carpet Pictures

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