It’s hard to believe that Kelly Clarkson was crowned the first American Idol nine years ago. Since then, Kelly has become the most successful Idol contestant worldwide. The now 29-year-old singer-songwriter has two Grammy Awards, three MTV Video Music Awards, Platinum albums, and endless amount of hits to her name. Basically, she is EVERYTHING.

Stronger is the fifth album from Kelly and easily one of this years highlights. Lead single “Mr. Know It All” has proven to be the less immediate song she’s ever released but its strong melody and a sing-along chorus has it climbing back up the charts (currently #24). As for the rest of the album, Kelly delivers a strong album with great vocals and is just as feisty and straight-forward as ever. Songs like title track, “Stronger,” “You Love Me,” and “Let Me Down” are amazing power pop-rock anthems. While the brilliant “Honestly” could easily stand as one of her best ballads to date. The Greg Kurstin-produced track needs to be a single.

Stronger isn’t Kelly‘ long-promised Country album; it mostly sticks to what we’re use to but lyrically delivers tunes with a country singer’s confidence. You get a little bit of “Thankful,” “My December,” “All I Ever Wanted” and most clearly the massive radio friendly appeal that was “Breakaway.” Kelly has always been a great vocalist who could easily sing any genre. There is no question about it, she has one of the strongest voices out there today. Stronger is easily one of her most cohesive efforts yet and proves that her pipes are forever still winning. The growth is clear and everything is just much better and smarter. My only negative judgement is this is all very familiar and expected. We all know Kelly is capable of a lot more and I’m looking forward to whatever she has in store for us in the future. Kellegend Brianne Clarkson, I Love You. 4.5/5

BUY Kelly Clarkson’s new album “Stronger” on iTunes NOW!
BUY Kelly Clarkson’s new album “Stronger (Deluxe Version)” on iTunes NOW!