We all know that Kelly Clarkson can sing. But WOW can she sing.
The 57th Academy of Country Music Awards was held at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas with Clarkson singing a rendition of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You.” And what a rendition it was.
Parton was the ceremony’s host.
It is not an easy song to sing, even though you often hear it at karaoke bars, since it requires an impeccable balance of power, range, and control. Clarkson smashed it though.
“I Will Always Love You” has so many covers. In 1974, Dolly’s first version hit No.1 on the charts, while in 1982 she rerecorded it for the film “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”. It hit No.1 again as a result.
Then in 1992, Whitney Houston came out with her legendary performance of the song which she recorded for the film, “The Bodyguard”.
Houston’s version is what most people recognize.
And while the most people assume that it’s a love song, Parton wrote it as a way to say goodbye to her once duet partner and mentor Porter Wagoner. The lyrics are heartbreaking but is often overshadowed by the vocals.
Clarkson took to the stage and stunned the audience in a black velvet, long-sleeved gown as she sang her heart out, impressing everyone in attendance.
And those in attendance were big names.
The powerful performance overshadowed its simplicity, with a piano and guitar accompanying the singer, her voice hitting note after note without missing a beat.
A viewer named victim commented,
“This song has been sung so many times and so often with the intention of showing off vocals that sometimes the sentimental lyrics are overshadowed by the singer. Kelly’s such a powerful vocalist but always makes sure she’s telling the story and I love her for it.”
It’s a song that tells a story, though listeners and would be singers tend to focus on reaching those skyhigh notes made famous by Houston. Kelly does a wonderful job balancing out the song.
And how did Dolly Parton take the tribute?
“Oh my, God, that was so great!” she exclaimed after Clarkson’s performance. “That’s so great, Kelly. I know that Whitney is smiling down on us tonight. Thank you very much … I was backstage trying not to cry my false eyelashes off.”
High praise!
“That just topped it off for me.” Parton continued.
Her fans are all over the comments section. Here’s one saying,
“Kelly Clarkson is severely underrated. She needs to release multiple albums of her covers. She’s the only artist who can do it all and sound amazing. She proved her versatility on American Idol and continues to be the best to come from that show.”
Clarkson will have you replaying this incredible performance alright!
A true testament to the amazing talent that is Kelly Clarkson.
Hit play over and over again for her performance below!
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