Kelly Clarkson has come a long way from her humble beginnings on American Idol, proving herself to be much more than the show’s inaugural winner.

Clarkson’s career has flourished, setting a high bar for the show’s subsequent winners, many of whom struggled to navigate the treacherous waters of the music industry. Her powerful voice has led the way, producing hit songs like “Stronger,” “Because of You,” and “Since U Been Gone,” and earning her three Grammy Awards along the way.

Recently, she showcased her broad vocal range with a stunning cover of Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things.”

Fans of The Kelly Clarkson Show are well-acquainted with Clarkson’s Kellyoke segment, where she regularly covers iconic songs, often putting her unique spin on them.

On June 11, Clarkson chose to perform Boone’s “Beautiful Things,” a song known for its compelling rhythm and powerful vocals. Clarkson maintained the original’s rhythmic integrity while not shying away from the challenging vocal highs and lows, delivering a performance that was both powerful and effortless.

The audience’s reaction to Clarkson’s rendition was overwhelmingly positive, with fans taking to social media to express their admiration. Comments like “I never want to hear the original again,” and “Now she needs to record and release the full version!!!” were common sentiments.

One particularly enthusiastic fan summed it up, stating, “This Queen can do no wrong!” Such feedback highlights Clarkson’s enduring appeal and her ability to make any song her own.

In many ways, Benson Boone’s journey mirrors Clarkson’s early days. Boone appeared on American Idol in 2021 during the show’s 19th season at just 18 years old. His audition left a strong impression on the judges, with Katy Perry even suggesting he could win the entire competition.

However, in a surprising turn of events, Boone chose to leave the show. In a candid interview on the Zach Sang Show in 2022, Boone explained his decision, saying, “I decided that I wanted to do music, and I don’t want people to be like, ‘Oh, Benson Boone. ‘American Idol’ blew him up. That’s what he comes from.’ No. I want to be Benson Boone because I write smash hits, and they love my music. That’s why I quit.”

I never want to hear the original again pic.twitter.com/s8Wgi2zZIC

— Caleb Howell (@ca1ebhowell) June 11, 2024

Watch the full performance below

Despite not finishing his journey on American Idol, Boone has found significant success in his music career. He is currently on a world tour and is set to perform alongside the iconic Taylor Swift on June 23.

Boone’s decision to forge his own path in the music industry has paid off, proving that his talent and dedication can stand independently of his brief stint on American Idol.

Clarkson’s cover of “Beautiful Things” serves as a beautiful intersection of these two artists’ journeys. It highlights Clarkson’s versatility and continued relevance in the music industry while bringing attention to Boone’s rising star.

Clarkson’s ability to take a contemporary hit and infuse it with her unique style demonstrates why she has remained a formidable force in the music industry for over two decades.

In the end, both Clarkson and Boone exemplify the diverse paths to success in the music industry. Clarkson’s steady rise from a reality TV show winner to an established artist with a successful talk show and millions of records sold showcases a traditional route.

In contrast, Boone’s decision to step away from the spotlight of American Idol to build his career on his terms underscores a more modern approach to fame and artistic integrity.

Clarkson’s performance of “Beautiful Things” is more than just a cover; it’s a testament to the evolving nature of music and talent.

It shows that regardless of the path taken, genuine talent, and dedication to the craft will always find a way to shine.

As fans continue to celebrate Clarkson’s renditions and Boone prepares for his high-profile performances, both artists are reminders of the power of music to transcend the boundaries of a traditional career trajectory and to resonate with audiences worldwide.

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