The phrase is overused as it is used both incorrectly and excessively. However, we cannot describe it Chemistry Otherwise: It’s arguably Kelly Clarkson’s “most personal” project, having been written and recorded during a highly publicized breakup — and subsequent divorce. “It’s the most difficult album I’ve ever had to make,” affirms the singer.
Kelly Clarkson is no stranger to feeling vulnerable when it comes to starting or singing certain tracks. From “Because of You” to “Piece By Piece,” his repertoire for the last 20 years is full of those edgy anthems that force the performer to suppress any modesty when performing them on stage.
“I’m used to this vulnerability; In fact, I don’t think I know any other way of singing. All artists – singers, painters, sculptors, whatever – it’s our way of connecting with our audience,” she says.
chronicle of a relationship
But in the case of Chemistry – a tenth album released this week – it’s “different,” she agrees. Because each of his 14 tracks serves as a chronicle of his relationship with Brandon Blackstock, from its beginnings to their divorce, which was pronounced in 2022 after nine years of marriage. “I’d never made a concept album like this that’s all about one relationship,” Kelly Clarkson admitted in a video conference call with Le Journal.
” It’s difficult. But it was still important for me to do it and to validate these feelings. I’m sure that many people have experienced something similar and can relate to it. And if it can help people who are going through a difficult breakup going through it, all the better,” she continues with a smile.
different image
So today Kelly Clarkson certainly invites us into an intimate but also darker universe; Because, in addition to its narrative framework, Chemistry’s visual aesthetic is at odds with the sparkling and playful personality it expresses both in The Voice’s red armchair and on the sofa of its daily talk show.
But when we can see the serious, all-black singer on the cover of Chemistry, fans can rest easy: her idol hasn’t lost any of his zest. In fact, the author of these lines spoke to the affable, laughing, and playful Kelly Clarkson earlier this month. And she hopes music lovers will recognize some of those traits as they listen.
“There’s obviously anger and sadness on this album. But there are also songs that evoke completely opposite emotions. The new single “My Favorite Kind of High” tells about the beginnings of a relationship, the excitement and the sparks you feel. And that’s what I wanted: to address the full extent of a relationship, both the good times and the bad times,” she explains.
Resident in Vegas
Now that Kelly Clarkson has completed The Voice’s 23rd edition as coach, the singer is ready for a new challenge: a Las Vegas residency that will begin next month at the Bakkt Theater in Las Vegas. Can we see them and then head out for a proper tour? Difficult to say that the animation of his daily talk show makes it difficult to travel.
“Several things are being prepared behind the scenes. But right now I’m concentrating on the Las Vegas shows. It’s the only thing I have time for at the moment; I’m a single mom of two, just finished The Voice and moved to New York this summer,” she says.
“But I look forward to giving music more space in my life. I know there are many places I haven’t been in a long time that I need to visit. And Montreal is one of them,” she concludes.
♦ Scrapbook Chemistry is now available.