1. Since U Been Gone
“Since U Been Gone” is one of Kelly Clarkson’s most iconic and successful songs, serving as a defining track in her career. Released in 2004 as part of her second studio album, “Breakaway,” the song marked a significant shift towards a more pop-rock-oriented sound for Clarkson. Written and produced by the powerhouse duo of Max Martin and Dr. Luke, “Since U Been Gone” perfectly captured the zeitgeist of 2000s pop music and became a massive hit, resonating with audiences worldwide.
The song is renowned for its empowering message, catchy melody, and Clarkson’s powerful, emotive vocals. The lyrics speak to the liberating feeling of finding strength and independence after a difficult breakup, with Clarkson delivering lines like, “But since you been gone / I can breathe for the first time / I’m so moving on, yeah, yeah” with a mix of vulnerability and assertiveness. The chorus is particularly memorable, featuring an anthemic quality that invites listeners to sing along.
“Since U Been Gone” received critical acclaim for its fusion of pop and rock elements, with Clarkson’s vocal performance often highlighted as a standout aspect of the song. It achieved commercial success, topping charts around the world, and has since been regarded as a pop anthem of the 2000s. The song’s influence extends beyond its initial release, often being covered by other artists and featured in various media, solidifying its status as a classic in the pop music canon and one of Kelly Clarkson’s signature hits.
2. Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)
“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” is a powerful and uplifting song by Kelly Clarkson, serving as the anthem of resilience and empowerment. Released in 2011 as the title track from her fifth studio album, “Stronger,” the song became an instant hit, widely praised for its infectious melody, inspiring lyrics, and Clarkson’s dynamic vocal performance.
The song’s message centers on the theme of overcoming adversity and emerging stronger from life’s challenges. The chorus, with its memorable line, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, stand a little taller,” encapsulates the song’s core message of turning pain into strength and finding growth in difficult experiences. Clarkson’s delivery of the lyrics is both passionate and convincing, adding to the song’s impact and relatability.
Musically, “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” features a catchy pop-rock sound with driving beats, synthesizers, and powerful guitar riffs, creating an energetic and empowering atmosphere. The song’s structure, building from verses to a soaring chorus, makes it an anthem of perseverance and self-empowerment.
The song received critical acclaim and commercial success, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of Clarkson’s most successful singles. It resonated with a broad audience, becoming a motivational anthem in various contexts, from personal fitness to life challenges. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” not only solidified Kelly Clarkson’s status as a pop powerhouse but also left a lasting impact as a timeless anthem of strength and resilience.
3. My Life Would Suck Without You
“My Life Would Suck Without You” is a high-energy pop rock song by Kelly Clarkson, released as the lead single from her fourth studio album, “All I Ever Wanted,” in 2009. The song was written and produced by the powerhouse team of Max Martin, Dr. Luke, and Claude Kelly. It marks a return to Clarkson’s pop roots after the darker and more rock-oriented themes of her previous album, “My December.”
The song is known for its catchy melody, pulsating beats, and Clarkson’s dynamic vocal performance. The lyrics revolve around a tumultuous relationship that, despite its ups and downs, is ultimately seen as indispensable by the narrator. Lines like “Guess this means you’re sorry / You’re standing at my door / Guess this means you take back / All you said before,” along with the infectious chorus, “Because my life would suck without you,” capture the intensity and roller-coaster emotions of the relationship described in the song.
“My Life Would Suck Without You” received widespread acclaim for its hook-laden production, memorable melody, and Clarkson’s powerful vocals. The song broke records by catapulting from the 97th to the 1st position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in its first week of release, showcasing Clarkson’s enduring appeal and her ability to deliver hit songs.
The song’s upbeat tempo, combined with its candid exploration of relationship dynamics, resonated with audiences, making it a pop anthem and a standout track in Kelly Clarkson’s discography. “My Life Would Suck Without You” further solidified Clarkson’s status as a pop music icon and a master of crafting songs that blend emotional depth with mainstream appeal.
4. Behind These Hazel Eyes
“Behind These Hazel Eyes” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, released as the second single from her second studio album, “Breakaway,” in 2004. The song is known for its powerful vocals, emotive lyrics, and its blend of pop and rock elements. It became one of Clarkson’s signature songs and is often regarded as a standout track of her early career.
The lyrics of “Behind These Hazel Eyes” narrate the pain and frustration of dealing with a broken relationship and the struggle to move on. The song’s narrative is deeply personal and relatable, resonating with listeners who have experienced heartache and betrayal. Clarkson’s delivery of the song is passionate and raw, effectively conveying the song’s emotional intensity.
The chorus of “Behind These Hazel Eyes” is particularly memorable, with Clarkson belting out the lyrics with full force, showcasing her vocal range and emotional depth. The song’s music video, which features Clarkson escaping from a wedding and running through a forest, further emphasizes the themes of entrapment and liberation present in the lyrics.
“Behind These Hazel Eyes” was a commercial success, charting highly in multiple countries and solidifying Clarkson’s place as a leading pop-rock artist. The song remains a fan favorite and a powerful anthem about resilience and the journey to self-empowerment.
5. Because of You
“Because of You” is one of Kelly Clarkson’s most poignant and emotionally charged songs. Released in 2005 as part of her multi-platinum album “Breakaway,” the song showcases Clarkson’s powerful vocal abilities and her depth as a songwriter. Co-written by Clarkson, Ben Moody, and David Hodges, “Because of You” is a deeply personal ballad that delves into the impact of family strife and broken relationships.
The song’s lyrics are a raw and heartfelt expression of pain and the fear of repeating the past in one’s own life. Lines like “Because of you, I never stray too far from the sidewalk / Because of you, I learned to play on the safe side so I don’t get hurt,” reveal the lasting emotional scars of a tumultuous childhood. Clarkson’s delivery is intensely emotional, conveying the vulnerability and strength of someone who has endured and grown from their experiences.
Musically, “Because of You” features a poignant piano melody that builds into a powerful, sweeping arrangement, complementing the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song’s bridge and climax showcase Clarkson’s range and ability to convey deep emotion through her voice, making it a standout track in her discography.
“Because of You” resonated with audiences worldwide, earning critical acclaim and achieving commercial success. The song’s universal themes of pain, resilience, and the desire to break the cycle of hurt touched the hearts of many, further establishing Kelly Clarkson as a formidable artist capable of connecting with her audience on a profound level.
6. Walk Away
“Walk Away” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, featured on her second studio album, “Breakaway,” released in 2004. The song was released as the fifth and final single from the album in 2006. “Walk Away” is known for its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and empowering message.
The song’s lyrics encourage self-respect and assertiveness in the face of a relationship that isn’t working. Clarkson sings about recognizing one’s worth and the importance of walking away from a situation where you’re not valued or treated right. The chorus, with lines like “Just walk away, no use defending words that you will never say,” drives home the message of standing up for oneself and moving on from negative relationships.
Musically, “Walk Away” combines elements of pop and rock, featuring a driving rhythm, prominent guitar riffs, and Clarkson’s powerful vocals. The song’s energetic and anthemic nature makes it an uplifting track, resonating with listeners who appreciate songs about strength and independence.
“Walk Away” was well-received commercially and helped maintain the success of the “Breakaway” album, which marked a significant period in Clarkson’s career, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her ability to connect with a wide audience through her music.
7. Breakaway
“Breakaway” is a signature song by Kelly Clarkson, serving as the title track for her second studio album released in 2004. The song was originally written by Avril Lavigne, Bridget Benenate, and Matthew Gerrard, and it stands out for its inspirational lyrics and soaring melody. “Breakaway” marks a significant moment in Clarkson’s career, symbolizing her evolution as an artist and her venture into a more pop-rock oriented musical style.
The lyrics of “Breakaway” speak to the universal desire for growth, change, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. The song narrates the journey of breaking away from constraints and fears to embrace new experiences and opportunities. Lines like “I’ll spread my wings, and I’ll learn how to fly / I’ll do what it takes till I touch the sky,” capture the aspirational and hopeful spirit of the song, making it an anthem of empowerment and self-discovery.
Clarkson’s vocal performance in “Breakaway” is both powerful and emotive, conveying a sense of determination and vulnerability. The song’s arrangement, with its gentle verses building up to a compelling and uplifting chorus, complements the narrative of personal growth and the pursuit of dreams.
“Breakaway” received widespread acclaim and resonated with audiences around the world, becoming an inspirational anthem for many. The song’s success further cemented Kelly Clarkson’s status as a versatile and influential artist in the pop music scene. Its enduring appeal lies in its relatable message and Clarkson’s ability to deliver it with genuine emotion and conviction.
8. Miss Independent
“Miss Independent” is a vibrant and empowering song by Kelly Clarkson, released as the lead single from her debut album, “Thankful,” in 2003. The song was co-written by Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Rhett Lawrence, and Matt Morris. It marked Clarkson’s foray into the music industry following her victory on “American Idol,” showcasing her vocal prowess and establishing her as a pop music sensation.
“Miss Independent” is celebrated for its catchy melody, dynamic production, and Clarkson’s strong, assertive vocal performance. The song’s lyrics celebrate self-sufficiency and independence, portraying a woman who is confident, strong-willed, and capable of taking care of herself. Lines like “Miss Independent, Miss Self-Sufficient, Miss Keep Your Distance,” reflect the protagonist’s pride in her independence and her initial reluctance to open up to the possibility of love.
Musically, the song features a blend of pop and R&B elements, with a driving beat, bold guitar riffs, and a compelling chorus that highlights Clarkson’s vocal range and emotive delivery. The song’s bridge, where the tempo slows down and Clarkson’s voice soars, adds a layer of depth and vulnerability, contrasting with the song’s overall upbeat and assertive tone.
“Miss Independent” was a commercial success, charting in the top 10 in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim for its empowering message and Clarkson’s vocal talent. The song has been regarded as an anthem of independence and strength, resonating with listeners who appreciate its celebration of confidence and self-reliance. It set the stage for Kelly Clarkson’s successful music career, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her ability to connect with audiences through relatable and inspiring music.
9. Catch My Breath
“Catch My Breath” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, released as a single from her first greatest hits album, “Greatest Hits – Chapter One,” in 2012. The song reflects Clarkson’s journey in the music industry and her desire to take control of her life and career. It’s celebrated for its uplifting melody, inspiring lyrics, and Clarkson’s powerful vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “Catch My Breath” talk about embracing one’s individuality, not giving up in the face of adversity, and finding strength within oneself. Lines like “Catching my breath, letting it go, turning my cheek for the sake of this show” and “No one can hold me back, I ain’t got time for that” highlight themes of empowerment and self-determination.
Musically, the song features a dynamic blend of pop and soft rock elements, with a prominent driving beat and an anthemic chorus that showcases Clarkson’s vocal range and emotional depth. The production is polished, with a mix of synthesizers and guitars creating a sound that’s both contemporary and timelessly inspirational.
“Catch My Breath” was well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for its relatable message and Clarkson’s authenticity as an artist. The song adds to her repertoire of empowering anthems, resonating with listeners who appreciate music about personal growth, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s own path.
10. People Like Us
“People Like Us” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, included in her first greatest hits album, “Greatest Hits – Chapter One,” released in 2012. The song was later released as a single in 2013. “People Like Us” is an uplifting anthem that celebrates individuality, diversity, and the power of unity among those who might feel like outsiders.
The lyrics of “People Like Us” encourage listeners to stand together, embrace their uniqueness, and support one another. The chorus, with lines like “People like us, we’ve gotta stick together / Keep your head up, nothing lasts forever,” sends a powerful message of hope, solidarity, and resilience. The song’s message is one of empowerment and finding strength in community and shared experiences.
Musically, “People Like Us” features an energetic pop sound with driving beats, catchy melodies, and synth elements that create an anthemic and celebratory atmosphere. Clarkson’s vocal performance is dynamic and inspiring, further amplifying the song’s empowering message.
The vibrant and colorful music video for “People Like Us” complements the song’s theme of celebrating diversity and the beauty of being different. “People Like Us” resonates with listeners who appreciate music that promotes positivity, acceptance, and the strength found in unity. The song adds to Kelly Clarkson’s collection of empowering and motivational tracks, showcasing her ability to connect with her audience through uplifting and relatable messages.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
