Kelly Clarkson Returns to The Kelly Clarkson Show
Kelly Clarkson is back in action — and back in top form — on The Kelly Clarkson Show following time away after the death of her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock in 2025. Despite personal challenges, Clarkson’s passion for country music remains unwavering.
A Powerful Kellyoke Performance
This week, the Texas native delivered a jaw-dropping rendition of The Red Clay Strays’ “No One Else Like Me” during her Kellyoke segment, earning acclaim from fans who label it as one of her most powerful covers to date. The song, which features on the Alabama band’s 2024 breakout album Made by These Moments, presents a formidable challenge, yet Clarkson rose to the occasion.
Matching Grit and Intensity
Clarkson expertly matched frontman Brandon Coleman’s signature grit and intensity, infusing her own powerhouse vocal style and emotional depth into the performance. This cover is a testament to her versatility and enduring love for the country genre.
The Rise of The Red Clay Strays
Within a matter of years, The Red Clay Strays have transitioned from underground favorites to prominent contenders in the country and Americana scenes. They received accolades such as Emerging Act of the Year at the 2024 Americana Awards and won New Vocal Duo or Group at the 2025 ACMs. Their single “Wondering Why” achieved multi-platinum status, and their debut album Moment of Truth went gold.
Making Waves in the Industry
By the end of 2025, The Red Clay Strays had solidified their position in mainstream country music, delivering a standout performance of “People Hatin’” at the CMA Awards, where they dethroned Old Dominion for Vocal Group of the Year.
A Perfect Match of Voices
Brandon Coleman’s gritty, soulful delivery brings a raw emotional quality to The Red Clay Strays’ music. Clarkson, known for her powerful vocals, is one of the rare artists capable of matching and elevating that energy. Covering a Red Clay Strays song is no small feat, yet Clarkson made “No One Else Like Me” distinctly her own.
Why Clarkson Remains a Country Icon
This latest performance reinforces why Kelly Clarkson is regarded as one of the most respected vocalists in the country genre, and why fans are drawn to her every time she showcases her country roots.
10 Covers That Prove Kelly Clarkson Is a Country Queen
Although Kelly Clarkson has not released a full country project, she remains royalty in the genre. Here are ten of her best country performances, ranging from her twangiest Kellyoke covers to collaborations with some of today’s hottest country acts.
Conclusion
Kelly Clarkson’s return to The Kelly Clarkson Show marks a significant moment in her career as she continues to deliver powerful performances despite personal challenges. Her recent cover of The Red Clay Strays’ “No One Else Like Me” elevates her status in the country music scene and showcases her unparalleled vocal talent. As she navigates her journey, fans can look forward to more memorable moments from this beloved artist.
FAQs
1. What is Kelly Clarkson’s latest performance on her show?
Kelly Clarkson recently performed a cover of The Red Clay Strays’ “No One Else Like Me” during her Kellyoke segment, which has been highly praised by fans.
2. Who are The Red Clay Strays?
The Red Clay Strays are a country and Americana band that gained recognition for their gritty sound and emotional performances. They have received multiple awards and accolades in a short period.
3. Has Kelly Clarkson released a full country album?
No, Kelly Clarkson has not released a full country project, but she is widely recognized for her contributions to the genre through various covers and collaborations.
4. What makes Clarkson’s cover of “No One Else Like Me” special?
Clarkson’s cover is noted for its emotional depth and power, as she matches the original’s intensity while bringing her unique vocal style to the performance.
