From Strength to Strength: Kelly Clarkson's 'Chemistry' Radiates
Let's be honest. Kelly Clarkson can do no wrong.
Kelly Clarkson possesses an extraordinary talent - she simply cannot create a subpar song. Every time she lends her voice to a track, it becomes infused with a touch of magic, elevating it to something that's undeniably great. Her latest album, Chemistry, serves as proof of this fact. Not only does the album boast exceptional songwriting and tight production, but it is Clarkson's larger-than-life vocals that truly make it shine.
I still vividly recall the moment I had the opportunity to meet Kelly backstage at the 2002 MTV Awards, just days before she triumphed as the winner of American Idol. She exuded excitement and wonder, fully aware of the spotlight that had been cast upon her as a result of her participation in the biggest TV show of that era.
I crossed paths with Kelly once again in 2019, backstage at a show in Nashville during a tour stop. She always remained a wonderful human being, brimming with energy and genuine interest in others.
It took Clarkson a span of three years to finalize Chemistry, a period marked by ups and downs, personal struggles, and the global pandemic. Throughout the album, one can sense the fruits of her introspection and regained independence. Tracks like "Rock Hudson" showcase her newfound confidence, while "Red Flag Collector" directly speaks to her recent personal experiences with lyrics such as, "I learned the hard way about love."
The mood takes an upbeat turn with "Favorite Kind of High," a fun and infectious pop song ready for the top 40 charts. Notably, the album features special collaborations, including Hollywood A-lister Steve Martin on "I Hate Love" (curiously, they have never met), and the talented Sheila E., who joins Clarkson on "That's Right." However, it is Clarkson's songwriting prowess and immaculate vocals that reach their pinnacle on the hauntingly beautiful ballad, "Lighthouse."
Even after all these years, Clarkson remains an influential figure on the pop scene, and her latest album stands as a timeless testament to her artistry.