Kelly Clarkson, the original “American Idol” and one of the most powerful voices in music, has spent decades captivating audiences with her incredible talent and emotional authenticity. From her breakout moment on the “American Idol” stage to her rise as an international superstar, Kelly has consistently delivered hits that resonate with fans across the globe. Her music is a perfect blend of raw emotion, empowering anthems, and unforgettable melodies that have stood the test of time.
In this article, we take a journey through Kelly Clarkson’s illustrious career to celebrate her top 10 most popular songs of all time. These tracks have not only dominated the charts but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions. Whether you’re belting out her empowering lyrics in your car, reminiscing about heartbreak, or dancing to her upbeat tunes, Kelly’s music has a way of connecting us to our deepest emotions.
From the groundbreaking “Since U Been Gone” to the soul-stirring “Because of You,” this list is packed with hits that define her legacy. So, get ready to relive the magic, as we count down the iconic songs that cement Kelly Clarkson’s place as a music legend!
1. Since U Been Gone (2004)
“Since U Been Gone” is an unforgettable pop-rock anthem that not only marked a pivotal moment in Kelly Clarkson’s career but also resonated with anyone who has ever faced the end of a toxic relationship. Released as the lead single from her second album, Breakaway, the song features a powerful, raw energy that was impossible to ignore. From the very first note, Clarkson’s powerhouse vocals grab your attention, and when the chorus hits, it’s pure, cathartic release. The lyrics, unapologetically reflecting the freedom and relief that come with moving on, are relatable and empowering for anyone who has found the strength to leave a bad situation behind. The song’s infectious energy and Clarkson’s fierce delivery make it an anthem for resilience and self-empowerment. “Since U Been Gone” earned critical acclaim and became an international hit, topping charts and earning multiple awards, including a Grammy. The track marked a significant departure from Clarkson’s earlier pop-ballad style, cementing her as a force to be reckoned with in the pop-rock genre. With its unforgettable chorus and relatable message, this song remains one of Clarkson’s signature tracks and is still a go-to for anyone seeking motivation and strength.
2. Because of You (2004)
“Because of You” is one of Kelly Clarkson’s most deeply personal and emotionally raw songs, offering a glimpse into the lasting impact of childhood trauma. Featured on her Breakaway album, the song’s poignant lyrics explore the emotional scars left by a broken home, resonating with anyone who has experienced emotional pain or heartache. Clarkson’s tender delivery paired with a haunting piano melody pulls listeners in, allowing them to feel every bit of the vulnerability in her voice. The reflective nature of the song explores the chain reaction caused by love lost and the fear it instills in relationships. With lines like “Because of you, I never stray too far from the sidewalk”, Clarkson confesses the ways her past has shaped her behavior and outlook on love. The song is a stunning balance of vulnerability and strength, and its haunting melody perfectly complements its heart-wrenching lyrics. “Because of You” became one of her biggest hits and an instant classic, showcasing Clarkson’s incredible vocal range while connecting with listeners on a deeply emotional level. It’s a track that perfectly captures the complexities of growing up and the ways our past can shape our future relationships.
3. Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You) (2011)
“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” is the ultimate empowerment anthem that resonated with listeners everywhere when it was released in 2011. As the lead single from Kelly Clarkson’s fifth studio album, Stronger, the song quickly became a rallying cry for resilience and personal growth. The upbeat tempo, catchy hook, and Clarkson’s soaring vocals combine to create an energizing track that’s impossible not to sing along to. The message of the song is simple yet powerful: overcoming hardship and emerging stronger on the other side. With lyrics like “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”, the song reminds listeners that challenges and setbacks are part of life, but they don’t define us. Instead, they empower us to become better versions of ourselves. Clarkson’s delivery is fierce and unapologetic, imbuing the song with a sense of strength and determination that mirrors its message. The track’s universal appeal, paired with its infectious beat, propelled it to the top of the charts, cementing Clarkson’s place as a pop icon. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” is more than just a song; it’s a declaration of resilience and the strength to move forward, no matter what life throws your way.
4. Breakaway (2004)
“Breakaway,” the title track from Kelly Clarkson’s second album, Breakaway, is a reflection on growth, self-discovery, and the desire to break free from the confines of the past. Written by Avril Lavigne and co-writer Chantal Kreviazuk, the song speaks to the universal yearning for independence and the courage it takes to step into the unknown. Clarkson’s emotional delivery and the song’s smooth, melodic flow perfectly capture the feeling of wanting to escape the monotony of life and chase dreams that seem just out of reach. The lyrics, “I’ll spread my wings and I’ll learn how to fly”, symbolize the process of letting go of past limitations and embracing the future with hope and optimism. The song’s empowering message, paired with Clarkson’s soulful performance, made it a fan favorite and an anthem for anyone ready to take a leap of faith. Breakaway also marked a pivotal moment in Clarkson’s career, signaling her transition from the American Idol winner to a global pop star. The song’s nostalgic, reflective tone and its relatable message of transformation continue to resonate with listeners around the world, making it a timeless classic in her catalog.
5. My Life Would Suck Without You (2009)
“My Life Would Suck Without You” marked Kelly Clarkson’s triumphant return to the music scene after a brief hiatus. Released as the lead single from her fourth studio album, All I Ever Wanted, the song is a high-energy, pop-rock anthem about love, passion, and the ups and downs of a complicated relationship. With its infectious hook and catchy beat, Clarkson channels raw emotion into every note, making it impossible to not sing along. The lyrics, which detail the tug-of-war between staying and leaving in a relationship, are relatable to anyone who has ever experienced the emotional rollercoaster of love. The song’s blend of vulnerability and fiery determination mirrors Clarkson’s own personal growth and artistic evolution. The energetic chorus, “My life would suck without you”, is both playful and sincere, capturing the intensity of the emotions involved. “My Life Would Suck Without You” broke records upon release, achieving one of the fastest jumps to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, a testament to its widespread appeal and Clarkson’s enduring popularity. The track’s infectious energy and catchy chorus made it an instant hit, solidifying her place as one of pop music’s leading voices.
6. Miss Independent (2003)
“Miss Independent” was the breakthrough single that introduced Kelly Clarkson to the world as a force to be reckoned with. Released as the second single from her debut album Thankful, this song immediately caught attention with its confident, self-assured message and Clarkson’s powerhouse vocals. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo capture the essence of self-reliance and the importance of independence, making it an anthem for women everywhere. With lyrics like “Miss independent, that’s why I love her”, Clarkson expresses the value of confidence and strength in relationships, rejecting the notion of being defined by others. The track’s soulful vocals and empowering message resonated with a broad audience, making it one of Clarkson’s defining songs. The song’s success helped her transition from reality TV star to a respected artist with a strong voice in pop and rock music. Clarkson’s vocal delivery is confident and bold, perfectly reflecting the song’s theme of independence. “Miss Independent” is a standout track in Clarkson’s catalog, showcasing her vocal range and her ability to deliver empowering messages through music. It remains a fan favorite and an essential part of her career.
7. A Moment Like This (2002)
“A Moment Like This” is the coronation single that made Kelly Clarkson the first-ever American Idol winner. The song, with its soaring melody and heartfelt lyrics, captures the excitement and emotion of a life-changing moment. As Clarkson’s first official release, the ballad immediately connected with audiences, offering a sense of triumph and fulfillment. The lyrics, “Some people wait a lifetime for a moment like this,” beautifully express the profound sense of achievement that comes with realizing a dream. Clarkson’s emotional delivery, paired with the sweeping orchestration, makes the song feel like a celebration of hard work, perseverance, and destiny. The song’s impact was immediate, as it not only marked a historic moment in American Idol history but also cemented Clarkson’s place in the music industry. “A Moment Like This” became an instant classic, capturing the essence of victory and the thrill of reaching a long-awaited goal. It remains one of Clarkson’s most iconic songs, a testament to her journey from reality TV contestant to a global superstar.
8. Piece by Piece (2015)
“Piece by Piece,” from Kelly Clarkson’s 2015 album Piece by Piece, is one of her most emotionally raw and personal songs to date. In this track, Clarkson opens up about the scars left by abandonment and her journey toward healing. The song’s lyrics are deeply reflective, telling the story of a person who has learned to cope with the pain of being let down by a loved one. Clarkson sings with such emotional depth that every word feels like a confession, making the song incredibly powerful. The chorus, “Piece by piece, you collected me up off the ground,” expresses the profound sense of restoration that comes from a new, loving relationship. For Clarkson, this song was deeply personal, as it reflected her own experiences with her father and the unconditional love she found in her husband. “Piece by Piece” resonated with listeners worldwide, particularly those who had experienced similar struggles with abandonment or self-doubt. Clarkson’s raw vulnerability and her ability to convey complex emotions through her voice made the song one of her most impactful and memorable tracks.
9. Behind These Hazel Eyes (2004)
“Behind These Hazel Eyes” is one of Kelly Clarkson’s most powerful ballads, featured on her Breakaway album. The song blends rock and pop elements with deeply emotional storytelling, exploring the themes of heartbreak and resilience. Clarkson’s vocal delivery is both passionate and vulnerable, perfectly capturing the intense emotional turmoil that comes with a broken heart. The lyrics, which detail the pain of betrayal and the process of moving forward, are relatable to anyone who has experienced the loss of a relationship. The chorus, “Behind these hazel eyes, I’m holding on”, speaks to the inner strength and determination to move past the pain and keep going, despite the hurt. Clarkson’s ability to convey raw emotion in her performances made this track a standout from the Breakaway album, earning it a place as one of her most memorable songs. “Behind These Hazel Eyes” is a perfect example of Clarkson’s ability to blend vulnerability with empowerment, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in her career.
10. Already Gone (2009)
“Already Gone,” from Kelly Clarkson’s All I Ever Wanted album, is a poignant and introspective ballad about the end of a relationship. The song captures the bittersweet realization that, even though the love may still be there, the relationship is no longer salvageable. Clarkson’s emotive vocals bring an added layer of depth to the song, as she navigates the delicate balance between acceptance and grief. The lyrics, “Already gone, and it’s a shame”, reflect the painful recognition that the relationship has run its course, and there’s no turning back. The lush instrumentation and Clarkson’s evocative delivery create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, making “Already Gone” one of her most memorable tracks. The song stands out in her catalog for its emotional maturity and vulnerability, showcasing Clarkson’s ability to explore complex feelings with honesty and grace. “Already Gone” is a perfect example of Clarkson’s growth as an artist, with its subtle, reflective tone offering a different side to her musical persona. The track’s introspective nature and heartfelt delivery have made it a fan favorite and one of the standout tracks from All I Ever Wanted.
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.
