Kelly Clarkson is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and television personality. She rose to fame as the winner of the inaugural season of the reality television series “American Idol” in 2002.
Born on April 24, 1982, in Fort Worth, Texas, Clarkson showed an interest in singing from a young age and performed in various talent shows and competitions before auditioning for “American Idol.” Her powerful voice, engaging personality, and relatable charm endeared her to audiences, leading her to victory on the show.
Following her win on “American Idol,” Clarkson launched a highly successful music career. She has released numerous albums, including “Thankful” (2003), “Breakaway” (2004), “My December” (2007), “Stronger” (2011), “Piece by Piece” (2015), and “Meaning of Life” (2017). Clarkson’s music spans various genres, including pop, rock, R&B, and country, and she is known for her powerhouse vocals and emotive performances.
Throughout her career, Clarkson has achieved widespread acclaim and commercial success, earning numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Some of her most famous songs include “Since U Been Gone,” “Because of You,” “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You),” and “Piece by Piece.”
In addition to her music career, Clarkson has ventured into acting and television. She has appeared in films such as “From Justin to Kelly” (2003) and “UglyDolls” (2019), as well as television shows like “The Voice,” where she serves as a coach.
Clarkson’s impact on the music industry and popular culture is significant, and she is regarded as one of the most talented and influential artists of her generation. Her authenticity, versatility, and vocal prowess have earned her a dedicated fan base and solidified her status as a pop icon.
1. Since U Been Gone
“Since U Been Gone” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, released in 2004 as the lead single from her second studio album, “Breakaway.” The song was written by Max Martin and Lukasz “Dr. Luke” Gottwald, with additional writing credits for Clarkson and her guitarist, Max Martin.
“Since U Been Gone” is a pop-rock anthem that showcases Clarkson’s powerful vocals and emotive delivery. The song’s lyrics depict the narrator’s empowerment and liberation after ending a toxic relationship. It features a catchy chorus and energetic instrumentation, including prominent guitar riffs and driving drums.
Upon its release, “Since U Been Gone” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s widespread popularity and critical acclaim helped solidify Clarkson’s status as a pop superstar.
“Since U Been Gone” remains one of Kelly Clarkson’s most iconic and beloved songs. It has been praised for its catchy melody, empowering lyrics, and infectious energy, and it continues to be a staple of Clarkson’s live performances and a favorite among fans of pop and rock music.
2. Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)
“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” is a pop song performed by American singer Kelly Clarkson. It was released as the lead single from her fifth studio album, “Stronger,” in 2011.
The song is an empowering anthem about resilience and overcoming adversity. Its lyrics convey a message of strength and empowerment, encouraging listeners to rise above challenges and hardships. The chorus, with its catchy refrain “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” has become particularly iconic and memorable.
“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” was a commercial success, topping the charts in several countries and earning critical acclaim. It won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance in 2013, further solidifying its impact and popularity. The song’s uplifting message and Clarkson’s powerful vocal performance have resonated with audiences, making it a staple on playlists and in motivational contexts.
3. Because of You
“Because of You” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, released in 2005 as the second single from her second studio album, “Breakaway.” The song was written by Clarkson, along with David Hodges and Ben Moody.
“Because of You” is a powerful ballad that showcases Clarkson’s emotive vocals and vulnerability. The song’s lyrics explore themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and the lingering pain of past relationships. It depicts the aftermath of a failed romance and the lasting impact it has on the narrator’s life.
The song’s chorus, with lines like “Because of you, I never stray too far from the sidewalk,” highlights the emotional depth and resonance of the lyrics. Clarkson’s passionate delivery adds to the intensity of the song, making it a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced heartache.
“Because of You” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s emotional impact and Clarkson’s powerhouse vocals earned it widespread acclaim and solidified its status as one of her signature songs.
“Because of You” has since become one of Kelly Clarkson’s most enduring and beloved songs. Its heartfelt lyrics and stirring melody continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic in the realm of pop ballads.
4. Miss Independent
“Miss Independent” is a pop song performed by American singer Kelly Clarkson. It was released as the lead single from her debut studio album, “Thankful,” in 2003.
The song celebrates independence and self-reliance, with lyrics that depict a confident and empowered woman who is in control of her own life. It’s an anthem for strong, independent women who are unafraid to pursue their goals and live life on their own terms.
“Miss Independent” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries. It also earned critical acclaim and helped establish Clarkson as a solo artist after her win on the first season of “American Idol.” The song’s catchy melody and empowering message have made it a favorite among fans of pop music, and it remains one of Clarkson’s most well-known and beloved songs.
5. My Life Would Suck Without You
“My Life Would Suck Without You” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, released in 2009 as the lead single from her fourth studio album, “All I Ever Wanted.” The song was written by Max Martin, Lukasz “Dr. Luke” Gottwald, Claude Kelly, and Katy Perry.
“My Life Would Suck Without You” is an uptempo pop-rock anthem that showcases Clarkson’s powerful vocals and infectious energy. The song’s lyrics celebrate the highs and lows of a tumultuous relationship, expressing gratitude for the passion and excitement it brings, despite the challenges.
The chorus of the song, with lines like “Cause we belong together now, yeah, forever united here somehow, yeah,” highlights the theme of love and resilience in the face of adversity. Clarkson’s dynamic vocal performance, combined with the song’s catchy melody and driving beat, made it a standout hit.
Upon its release, “My Life Would Suck Without You” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s infectious energy and relatable lyrics resonated with listeners, earning it widespread acclaim and cementing its status as one of Clarkson’s signature songs.
“My Life Would Suck Without You” remains one of Kelly Clarkson’s most popular and enduring hits. Its catchy hooks, anthemic chorus, and high-energy production continue to make it a favorite among fans of pop music.
6. Behind These Hazel Eyes
“Behind These Hazel Eyes” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, released in 2004 as the second single from her second studio album, “Breakaway.” The song was written by Clarkson along with Max Martin and Lukasz “Dr. Luke” Gottwald.
“Behind These Hazel Eyes” is a mid-tempo pop rock song that showcases Clarkson’s powerful vocals and emotive delivery. The song’s lyrics explore themes of heartbreak and betrayal, detailing the pain and frustration of a failed relationship.
The chorus of the song, with lines like “Here I am, once again, I’m torn into pieces, can’t deny it, can’t pretend,” highlights the emotional depth and vulnerability of the lyrics. Clarkson’s passionate performance adds to the intensity of the song, making it a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced heartache.
Upon its release, “Behind These Hazel Eyes” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s widespread popularity and critical acclaim helped solidify Clarkson’s status as a pop superstar.
“Behind These Hazel Eyes” remains one of Kelly Clarkson’s most iconic and beloved songs. Its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and powerful vocals continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic in the realm of pop rock music.
7. Breakaway
“Breakaway” is a pop song performed by American singer Kelly Clarkson. It was released as the title track and lead single from her second studio album, “Breakaway,” in 2004.
The song is an uplifting anthem about breaking free from limitations and pursuing one’s dreams. Its lyrics convey a message of courage, determination, and the desire to explore new horizons. “Breakaway” resonates with listeners who relate to the theme of self-discovery and the journey toward independence.
“Breakaway” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries. It received positive reviews from critics and earned Clarkson a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The song’s empowering message and Clarkson’s powerful vocal performance have made it a fan favorite and a staple on inspirational playlists.
8. Already Gone
“Already Gone” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, released in 2009 as the third single from her fourth studio album, “All I Ever Wanted.” The song was written by Clarkson along with Ryan Tedder and produced by Tedder.
“Already Gone” is a mid-tempo pop ballad that showcases Clarkson’s powerful vocals and emotive delivery. The song’s lyrics explore themes of heartbreak and acceptance, detailing the pain of realizing that a relationship has come to an end.
The chorus of the song, with lines like “I want you to know, it doesn’t matter where we take this road, but someone’s gotta go, and I want you to know, you couldn’t have loved me better,” highlights the emotional depth and vulnerability of the lyrics. Clarkson’s passionate performance adds to the intensity of the song, making it a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced the end of a relationship.
Upon its release, “Already Gone” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s widespread popularity and critical acclaim helped solidify Clarkson’s status as a pop superstar.
“Already Gone” remains one of Kelly Clarkson’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its heartfelt lyrics, catchy melody, and powerful vocals continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic in the realm of pop music.
9. Mr. Know It All
“Mr. Know It All” is a pop song performed by American singer Kelly Clarkson. It was released as the lead single from her fifth studio album, “Stronger,” in 2011.
The song’s lyrics address a person who behaves arrogantly and acts as if they know everything. Clarkson sings about not being fooled by this facade and standing up to someone who thinks they have all the answers. It’s an anthem of empowerment and self-assurance, with Clarkson asserting her independence and confidence.
“Mr. Know It All” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries. It received positive reviews from critics, who praised Clarkson’s vocal performance and the song’s catchy melody. The song’s theme of self-assurance and standing up for oneself resonated with listeners, making it a favorite among fans of pop music.
10. Piece by Piece
“Piece by Piece” is a song by Kelly Clarkson, released in 2015 as the title track and second single from her seventh studio album, “Piece by Piece.” The song was written by Clarkson along with Greg Kurstin and produced by Kurstin.
“Piece by Piece” is a heartfelt pop ballad that showcases Clarkson’s powerful vocals and emotive delivery. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love, family, and self-worth, detailing Clarkson’s personal journey and the healing process she experienced after the birth of her daughter.
The chorus of the song, with lines like “Piece by piece, he collected me up off the ground, where you abandoned things,” highlights the emotional depth and vulnerability of the lyrics. Clarkson’s passionate performance adds to the intensity of the song, making it a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced brokenness and found healing.
Upon its release, “Piece by Piece” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s widespread popularity and critical acclaim helped solidify Clarkson’s status as a pop superstar.
“Piece by Piece” remains one of Kelly Clarkson’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its heartfelt lyrics, beautiful melody, and powerful vocals continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic in the realm of pop music.
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.
