In a world saturated with auto-tuned tracks and flashy productions, sometimes the most powerful music comes from the simplest elements: two extraordinary voices, a gentle piano, and lyrics that cut straight to the soul. That’s exactly what Carrie Underwood and Dan + Shay delivered with their 2021 collaboration on “Only Us,” a reimagined version of the poignant ballad from the Broadway musical and film Dear Evan Hansen. This stripped-down studio performance has resonated deeply with listeners worldwide, amassing over 4.7 million views on its official YouTube video and countless more across fan uploads and shares. It’s the kind of recording that doesn’t just play in the background—it demands your full attention, often leaving listeners reaching for tissues as emotions swell.
The song itself originates from the Tony Award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen, composed by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the duo behind hits like The Greatest Showman and La La Land. In the story, “Only Us” is a tender moment between characters Evan and Zoe, where they choose to focus on their present connection rather than past complications. Lyrics like “What if it’s us / And only us / And what came before won’t count anymore or matter?” capture the raw vulnerability of new love amid personal struggles. When Underwood and Dan + Shay—two of country music’s premier vocal powerhouses—tackled it for the film’s soundtrack, they transformed it into something timeless, blending Broadway emotion with Nashville heart.
The official in-studio video, released in September 2021 alongside the track, is where the magic truly unfolds. Filmed in a dimly lit recording space, it features Underwood and the duo (Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney) gathered around a grand piano. No elaborate sets, no backup dancers—just the artists, their instruments, and interlaced clips from the movie to heighten the narrative. Underwood starts softly, her crystalline voice delivering the opening lines with a restraint that builds anticipation. As Shay Mooney joins in, his warm tenor weaves seamlessly with hers, creating harmonies that feel effortless yet profoundly moving. Dan Smyers provides subtle production touches and backing vocals, but the spotlight remains on the duet’s chemistry.
What elevates this performance to tear-jerking status is the authenticity in every note. Underwood’s voice occasionally cracks with emotion on higher phrases, a rare glimpse of vulnerability from an artist known for her flawless power belting. Mooney’s delivery catches in moments of intensity, adding a layer of raw humanity. Together, they don’t just sing the words—they embody them, turning the song into a heartfelt conversation. The piano accompaniment, played delicately, allows every breath, every inflection to shine through. There’s no gimmickry here; no glittering outfits or pyrotechnics to distract. It’s pure, heartbreaking simplicity that redefines what a modern duet can achieve.
Fans have poured out their reactions online, with one commenter capturing the sentiment perfectly: “They’re not just singing. They’re having a conversation with our souls.” Others describe using the track in weddings, proposals, and even vow renewals, noting how it encapsulates the essence of committing to “only us” despite life’s chaos. Comments flood in about uncontrollable tears, goosebumps, and replaying the video endlessly. “It only takes one line to see why,” many say, pointing to the bridge where Underwood and Mooney’s voices soar in unison: “Can we hold on to this moment? / Pretend nothing else exists?” That vulnerability hits like a wave, reminding listeners of their own fragile connections.
Carrie Underwood, the American Idol Season 4 winner turned country superstar, brings her signature emotional depth to the collaboration. With eight Grammy Awards, countless No. 1 hits like “Before He Cheats” and “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” and a voice that can shatter glass or whisper solace, she’s long been celebrated for performances that evoke real feeling. Her ventures into musical theater territory feel natural; after all, her powerhouse vocals have drawn comparisons to Broadway belters for years. Recording “Only Us” marked a exciting crossover, allowing her to explore nuanced storytelling beyond country’s typical narratives.
Dan + Shay, the Grammy-winning duo consisting of Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney, are no strangers to emotional ballads. Hits like “Tequila,” “Speechless,” and “10,000 Hours” (their Justin Bieber collaboration) have dominated charts with their romantic, harmony-rich sound. Smyers, who produced the track, has a knack for crafting intimate arrangements that highlight vocal interplay. Mooney’s lead vocals often carry a tender ache, perfectly complementing Underwood’s strength. The duo expressed sheer excitement about the project, calling themselves “superfans” of both Underwood and Dear Evan Hansen. This was their dream collab realized, blending their pop-country polish with Broadway’s dramatic flair.
The collaboration came about as part of the Dear Evan Hansen film’s soundtrack, which featured bonus tracks by pop and country stars to broaden the musical’s appeal. Directed by Stephen Chbosky and starring Ben Platt reprising his Tony-winning role, the movie explored themes of anxiety, isolation, and connection in the social media age. While the film received mixed reviews, the soundtrack shone, with Underwood and Dan + Shay’s version standing out for its emotional purity. Produced by Smyers, it stayed faithful to the original while infusing country warmth.
Beyond the studio, the performance’s impact lies in its relatability. In an era of polished perfection, hearing voices crack and catch feels refreshingly human. It reminds us that great music doesn’t need overproduction—it needs truth. Couples have shared stories of playing “Only Us” during their first dance, parents dedicating it to children navigating tough times, and friends finding solace in its message of choosing presence over past pain. The video’s millions of views reflect this universal pull; people return to it for comfort, inspiration, or simply to feel something profound.
This duet also highlights the evolving landscape of country music, where artists increasingly cross genres. Underwood has collaborated across styles, from rock with Guns N’ Roses’ Axl Rose to gospel influences in her holiday albums. Dan + Shay have pushed boundaries with pop-leaning hits and high-profile features. Together on “Only Us,” they bridge country and musical theater, proving heartfelt storytelling transcends labels.
Years after its release, the performance continues to touch new audiences. Wedding planners report it as a popular choice for ceremonies, valuing its intimate vibe over more upbeat anthems. Online forums buzz with discussions about vocal techniques—how Underwood’s subtle cracks add authenticity, how Mooney’s phrasing builds tension. It’s become a benchmark for emotional duets, often compared to classics like Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers’ “Islands in the Stream” but with a modern, minimalist edge.
Ultimately, Carrie Underwood and Dan + Shay’s “Only Us” isn’t just a song—it’s an experience. In under four minutes, it strips away the noise of daily life and focuses on what matters: connection, vulnerability, and the beauty of two voices uniting. No glitter, no gimmicks—just pure, soul-stirring artistry. It’s no wonder millions have been moved to tears; in a divided world, this duet whispers a hopeful truth: sometimes, it’s just us, and that’s enough.
