Since her debut on American Idol, Kelly Clarkson has gifted us with a soundtrack for life, tackling themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience with her powerhouse vocals. From soulful ballads that tug at your heartstrings to empowering anthems that make you want to conquer the world, Clarkson’s music has an uncanny ability to resonate deeply. Join us as we revisit ten of her most iconic tracks, each one a testament to her enduring talent and impact on the music scene.
1. “Heartbeat Song”: A Celebration of New Beginnings
“Heartbeat Song,” a track bursting with energy from Clarkson’s seventh studio album, Piece by Piece, is a pop anthem for anyone who’s ever dared to love again. Co-written by Clarkson, Kara DioGuardi, Jason Evigan, and Audra Mae, the song pulsates with a catchy melody and lyrics that celebrate the exhilarating rush of new love.
Adding an extra layer of personal significance, the song’s distinctive heartbeat sound effect is derived from a recording of Clarkson’s daughter, River Rose’s, heartbeat while she was still in the womb. In an interview, Clarkson shared her inspiration for the song, stating, “The loss of hope and love [after getting dumped]… that’s a very sad time in people’s lives. But then to have that renewed faith come back… that’s inspiring.”
2. “Beautiful Disaster”: Embracing the Complexities of Love
Featured on both her debut album, Thankful, and in a captivating live acoustic rendition on her sophomore album, Breakaway, “Beautiful Disaster” showcases Clarkson’s ability to convey raw emotion with her voice.
Penned by Matthew Wilder and Rebekah Jordan, the song delves into the intricate dynamics of a relationship teetering on the edge, acknowledging both the allure and the potential for chaos. The stripped-down acoustic version, recorded during Clarkson’s AOL Sessions, amplifies the song’s vulnerability, placing Clarkson’s powerhouse vocals front and center.
While not released as a single, “Beautiful Disaster” has become a fan favorite and a staple in her live performances.
3. “I Hate Love”: A Pop-Punk Take on Love’s Rollercoaster Ride
From her 2023 album, Chemistry, “I Hate Love” infuses a pop-punk edge into Clarkson’s exploration of love’s complexities. The song captures the emotional turbulence that often accompanies romantic relationships, drawing inspiration from Clarkson’s personal experiences.
Adding an unexpected twist, the track features a banjo played by none other than actor Steve Martin, a testament to Clarkson’s eclectic musical influences. The song’s lyrics cleverly contrast the idealized love portrayed in The Notebook with the messier reality depicted in It’s Complicated, mirroring Clarkson’s own journey through a high-profile divorce.
4. “Breakaway”: A Song of Dreams and Determination
Originally written for Avril Lavigne, “Breakaway” found its perfect match in Kelly Clarkson’s soaring vocals. Serving as the title track for her second studio album, the song marked a pivotal moment in Clarkson’s career, solidifying her versatility as an artist.
“Breakaway” resonated with audiences, peaking at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and remaining on the charts for an impressive 46 weeks. Its inclusion in the soundtrack for the film The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement further catapulted the song into the cultural zeitgeist.
Co-written by Lavigne, the lyrics speak to the universal desire to break free from limitations and chase after one’s dreams.
5. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)”: An Anthem of Resilience and Triumph
Released in 2011 as part of her fifth studio album, Stronger, “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” is an undeniable anthem of resilience and empowerment. The song resonated deeply with listeners, earning Clarkson her third number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Its infectious chorus and empowering message made it a go-to track for fitness playlists and motivational moments.
The song’s title pays homage to Friedrich Nietzsche’s famous quote, “That which does not kill us makes us stronger,” perfectly encapsulating the song’s message of overcoming adversity.
6. “Underneath the Tree”: A Modern Christmas Classic
In 2013, Kelly Clarkson achieved a rare feat: she gifted the world a brand-new Christmas anthem that has become a modern classic. Featured on her first Christmas album, Wrapped in Red, “Underneath the Tree” radiates holiday cheer with its upbeat tempo and celebratory lyrics.
Co-written by Clarkson and Greg Kurstin, who also produced the track, the song perfectly captures the magic and warmth of the holiday season. Critics praised its catchy melody and festive arrangement, even drawing comparisons to Mariah Carey’s iconic “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”
7. “Behind These Hazel Eyes”: A Raw and Honest Portrayal of Heartbreak
From her 2004 album, Breakaway, “Behind These Hazel Eyes” is a pop-rock ballad that showcases Clarkson’s ability to convey raw emotion through her music. The song, rumored to be about an ex-boyfriend who broke up with Clarkson and quickly moved on, explores themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and the struggle to maintain composure in the face of pain.
Co-written by Clarkson, Max Martin, and Dr. Luke, the song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone trying to mask their inner turmoil. “Behind These Hazel Eyes” resonated with listeners, peaking at number six on the Billboard Hot 100.
8. “My Life Would Suck Without You”: A Pop-Rock Reunion Story
Released in 2009 as the lead single from her fourth studio album, All I Ever Wanted, “My Life Would Suck Without You” marked Clarkson’s triumphant return to her signature upbeat pop-rock sound. The song celebrates the passionate, often chaotic, nature of a relationship where, despite the ups and downs, the couple realizes they’re stronger together.
The song made Billboard chart history, achieving the largest leap to number one on the Hot 100 by soaring from the 97th position to the top spot in a single week. Its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and energetic tempo made it an instant classic.
9. “Since U Been Gone”: A Pop-Rock Anthem for the Ages
Featured on Breakaway, “Since U Been Gone” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Released in 2004, the song became a global sensation, propelling Clarkson to new heights of fame and cementing her status as a pop-rock icon.
Written by Max Martin and Dr. Luke, “Since U Been Gone” almost didn’t make it to Clarkson. It was initially offered to both Pink and Hilary Duff, who both passed on the track. Thankfully, Clarkson saw its potential, and the rest is history. The song topped the Billboard Pop 100, reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100, and earned Clarkson a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
10. “Because of You”: A Poignant Ballad of Pain and Healing
“Because of You,” a deeply personal ballad from Breakaway, reveals a more vulnerable side of Clarkson. Co-written by Clarkson herself, the song draws inspiration from her own childhood experiences and explores the complexities of familial relationships and the lasting impact of pain.
Despite its somber theme, or perhaps because of it, “Because of You” connected with listeners on a profound level. It became one of Clarkson’s most successful singles worldwide, reaching the top ten in numerous countries. The song’s accompanying music video, directed by Vadim Perelman, vividly portrays the unraveling of a family, mirroring Clarkson’s own experiences.
“Because of You” stands as a testament to Clarkson’s courage to be vulnerable, sharing her story through music and, in doing so, resonating with millions around the world.
