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Tag Archives: kelly clarkson
Kelly Clarkson Debuts New Song At CRS
In Nashville last week, the annual Country Radio Seminar (CRS) took place. Country music stars were out in abundance at various special events providing everyone in attendance with great performances, brand new songs, cool collaborations, and a whole lot of fun!
One of the biggest nights during CRS week is the Sony Boat Show, and Kelly Clarkson sure did wow the crowd this year!
Clarkson debuted a new song titled, “Ain’t Gonna Like This,” which she co-wrote with her long-time guitarist and close friend, Aben Eubanks. If you follow Clarkson’s career, you will know that a Clarkson-Eubanks collab always results in some great music.
In the song, Clarkson references her musical heroes and influences, and sings her love for all genres of music. “Singin’ what I’m feelin’ inside/I don’t care what it is, what you call it, here it is.” … If you don’t like Reba/If you don’t like Trisha/If you don’t like Aretha/I don’t even wanna meet ya/If none of my heroes make your list/Well then you ain’t gonna like this.” (Big thank-you to Aben Eubanks for the correct lyrics.)
To top off the excitement over the new country track, Clarkson had a little help from her friends, The Pistol Annies, who provided the background vocals for the performance.
Twitter was abuzz with compliments for the song as well as for Clarkson and the Annies. They even got a standing O!
Some of my favorite tweets from the night:
@JosephHudak3: @kelly_clarkson is playing the Sony boat and I may lose my mind. Her voice is That Good. #CRS2013 — Joseph Hudak
@shaunridder: It’s official, @kellyclarkson IS country. We love her. How can you not? #Adorable #CRS2013 @sonynashville — Shaun Ridder
@Linda1Ryan: Woah! @kelly_clarkson cutting it up with the @pistolannies #sonyboatshow #rockinmyworld — Linda Ryan
We hope this song is going to be released to country radio soon. It has the makings of a mega hit written all over it. With its rockin’ country soul vibe, it would be a great follow-up to her current hit ballad, “Don’t Rush.”
And no, Kelly, we don’t like the song… we love it!
There are not any high quality videos of the performance yet, but you can still hear most of the song and hear Clarkson wail some super high notes as only she can. Check it out below.
* Photo by Alan Poizner
KEEPIN’ IT COUNTRY PRESENTS… JillandKate
We’re excited to announce our next performers for our Keepin’ It Country Presents series…JillandKate. Their acoustic-country-pop-folk sound has struck a chord with our readers and we are THRILLED to welcome them to our stage.
Jill Pickering and Kate Rapier met at the Contemporary Music Center on Martha’s Vineyard, an invitation-only artists’ colony that offers master classes in songwriting, recording, and performing. It was there on the Vineyard, they formed the acoustic pop duo, “JillandKate”.
For six years, “JillandKate” spent much of their time touring the globe and singing alongside Kelly Clarkson in her live performance band. Currently they are promoting the release of their latest studio album, Heart of Stone.
Tickets are available right now at http://bit.ly/YCdeOQ. Come see why JillandKate are one of the hottest new duos in Nashville! Tickets are “Pay what you can” so come one, come all!
JillandKate hit the stage on March 7th at 9 pm EST. Let us know when you get your tickets, and stay tuned for news on JillandKate and Keepin’ it Country. Tickets are available at http://bit.ly/YCdeOQ.
For more information on JillandKate, visit their website at http://jillandkate.com or read our interview here!
American Idol: Vegas Singoff Recap Part 1
This is American Idol…
In addition to the revamped judges’ panel this year including our own, Keith Urban, American Idol is changing things up a little bit with its new “Vegas Singoff” round. The Top 40, consisting of 20 girls and 20 guys, will take the stage to perform in front of a live audience before the judges narrow it down to a Top 20. Once a Top 20 is chosen, America takes over the voting again.
Ladies first! This week, the 10 girls started off the performances. Last night, the first 10 took the stage and the judges chose 5 to move on. Tonight, 10 of the guys will go and the judges will again pick 5 to stay. Next week, the process continues.
The first girls into the Top 20 are: Teena Torres, Kree Harrison, Angela Miller, Amber Holcomb, and Adriana Latonio.
Representing country music right now is Kree Harrison. Kree is an aspiring country singer who lives in Nashville and briefly had a record deal with Lyric Street. Last night, she sang Patty Griffith’s “Up To The Mountain.” I automatically compare covers of this song to Kelly Clarkson‘s breathtaking version that she wowed us with on Idol Gives Back in 2007, but Kree did a very good job with it and got a standing O from Keith & Nicki!
Kree was one of my favorites last night. Another was Angela Miller, who performed one of her original songs and continues to impress with her talent. I think they are two to watch this season!
My other favorite was country singer, Brandy Hotard. I think she has a great voice and was one of the best female contestants. Needless to say, I was very disappointed that she was eliminated and thought the judges made a mistake letting her go.
It’s been quite a while since a woman has won American Idol. Let’s see if the ladies have what it takes this season! Will they finally take the crown back from the guys?
Share your thoughts with us! Who was your favorite contestant last night? Did you agree with the judges’ decisions? Who would you have advanced to the next round?
Tune into Fox tonight at 8 p.m. est. to see the first 10 guys perform!
If you missed last night’s episode, here are videos of Kree and Angela’s performances:
Kree
Kree Harrison – Vegas Singoff – American Idol 12 by IdolxMuzic
Angela
Angela Miller – Vegas Singoff – American Ido 12 by IdolxMuzic
CELEBRITY DEATH MATCH: Kelly Clarkson v. Clive Davis
As you have likely heard, Clive Davis used nineteen pages of his memoir to share “stories” about Kelly Clarkson and his “experiences” working with her during her time under his wing. Mind you, we use the words “stories” and “experiences” loosely here, as Kelly rebutted the allegations Clive made in his book, explaining that his recollection contained “lapses and misinformation”.
You probably know that Clive Davis is a huge music mogul (and egomaniac?) who has been credited for many artists’ careers, including Aretha Franklin, Barry Manilow, Christina Aguilera, Carlos Santana, Jennifer Hudson, and the late great Whitney Houston. Clive has also been credited for his hand in Kelly’s career, before she parted ways after some artistic differences. Kelly, as you very well are aware, won Season 1 of American Idol and was catapulted into fame, never allowing anybody to change her or tell her there was something she could not do. And, not surprisingly at all, Kelly’s hunches have never served her wrong, as she continues to be a hitmaking, album selling, touring, award-winning artist over ten years after we first met her on the Idol stage.
Several artists have spoken out since yesterday when Clive’s memoir was released and Kelly spoke up about his “memories” of their encounters and working relationship. Martina McBride, Jennifer Nettles, and Chely Wright have all declared their membership on Team Kelly. So, we ask you — whose team are you on (Team Kelly or Team Clive) and which musicians have you seen vocalize where their loyalties lie? Help us figure out who will win this celebrity death match! Our money is on our girl, Kelly!
Here are just a few of our fave country celeb tweets:
@martinamcbride @kelly_clarkson YOU GO GIRL!!!!! Love it.
@chelywright: I just listened to @Kelly_Clarkson sing the Anthem again.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfu… She’s IT! I believe her account over Clive’s any day
@JenniferNettles: @kelly_clarkson You could sing the phone book and it would be brilliant! Proud of you for speaking your truth. Solidarity sistah!
@LynnAshow (Lynn Anderson)
Team @kelly_clarkson ! “Because of you” was a beautiful song and u continue to compose and use those huge pipes to the top of the charts.
@blairgarner KELLY IS A ROCKSTAR RT @kelly_clarkson: Clive Davis is releasing a memoir and spreading false info about me http://say.ly/GLO5cY7
@leannrimes @blairgarner @kelly_clarkson love this girl!
@chantalkreviaz @kelly_clarkson loving your courage and truth!!! wow…inspired. xx chantal http://marquee.blogs.cnn.com/2013/02/19/dont-mess-with-texas-kelly-clarkson-has-a-few-words-for-clive-davis/ …
And just to be fair, here are some of our faves that support Clive:
And that’s that!
Clive Davis responds to Kelly Clarkson’s criticism
Looks like the Kelly Clarkson vs Clive Davis feud just got a little messier. Music mogul Clive Davis responded this morning to an open letter posted by Kelly, where she claims he lied in his new Memoir “Soundtrack of My Life.” In his new book, Clive claims that Kelly cried over him wanting to put her mega-hit anthem “Since U Been Gone” and the rockier “Behind These Hazel Eyes” on her GRAMMY award winning album “Breakaway.” Kelly claims that the story is mixed up with him not liking her “Because Of You” single.
Clive released his own open letter on Twitter just now, saying:
“As anyone who has read “The Soundtrack of My Life” knows, I think Kelly Clarkson is a tremendous vocal talent and performer. In the book, I provide an in-depth look at our years together during which we shared major multi-platinum success, as well as a few creative differences. I am truly very sorry that she has decided to take issue with what I know to be an accurate depiction of our time together. Before the book was published, I had every fact checked with five independent individuals who were present on a daily basis throughout it all. The chapter as it is written was thoroughly verified by each and every one of them. I stand by the chapter as written in my book. At the same time I wish, and will always wish, Kelly’s talent and her career to soar to ever new heights.”
This fight is turning into a he-said-she-said battle. So, KIC readers, who do you think was telling the truth? Are you on Team Kelly or Team Clive?
Loading ...Read Kelly’s original letter below:
Kelly Clarkson takes on Clive Davis
Music superstar Kelly Clarkson is standing up for herself in a message posted on her Facebook and Twitter accounts today. Music superpower Clive Davis released a memoir, and which Kelly claims he spreads false information about her and she gives her side of what happened.
Kelly, who has released multiple country singles (“Because Of You” with Reba McEntire, “Don’t You Wanna Stay” with Jason Aldean, “Mr Know It All” country version, and “Don’t Rush” with Vince Gill), is frustrated at what Clive wrote in his book.
Read Kelly’s statement below:
So I just heard Clive Davis is releasing a memoir and spreading false information about me and my music. I refuse to be bullied and I just have to clear up his memory lapses and misinformation for myself and for my fans. It feels like a violation. Growing up is awesome because you learn you don’t have to cower to anyone – even Clive Davis.
First, he says I burst into “hysterical sobbing” in his office when he demanded Since You Been Gone be on my album. Not true at all. His stories and songs are mixed up. I did want more guitars added to the original demo and Clive did not. Max, Luke and I still fought for the bigger sound and we prevailed and I couldn’t be more proud of the life of that song. I resent him dampening that song in any way.
But, yes, I did cry in his office once. I cried after I played him a song I had written about my life called “Because Of You.” I cried because he hated it and told me verbatim that I was a “sh*tty writer who should be grateful for the gifts that he bestows upon me.” He continued on about how the song didn’t rhyme and how I should just shut up and sing. This was devastating coming from a man who I, as a young girl, considered a musical hero and was so honored to work with.
But I continued to fight for the song and the label relented. And it became a worldwide hit. He didn’t include that in the book.He also goes on to say My December wasn’t successful because I co-penned the album and it didn’t have “pop hits”. Well, first let me say, I’ve co-penned many of my “pop hits.” Secondly, My December went platinum (It sold 20,000 less than All I Ever Wanted which followed My December.) Hardly a huge failure. Never Again, the ONLY single they released in the US from that record was a Top 10 hit. I am very proud of that and I have my fans to thank. But, again, what’s most interesting about his story is what he leaves out: He doesn’t mention how he stood up in front of his company at a convention and belittled me and my music and completely sabotaged the entire project. It never had a chance to reach it’s full potential. My December was an album I needed to make for myself for many reasons and the fact that I was so completely disregarded and disrespected was so disheartening, there really aren’t words to explain….
Anyway, I love my job. I love my music. I love my fans. I love my label and all of my professional relationships… now. And I am grateful for Clive for teaching me to know the difference.
Cheers to another amazing year! And, as always, thanks for listening!
KC
What do you think about Kelly’s message? Do you support the 2012 Country Music Association’s Female Vocalist of the Year nominee standing up for herself? Read her statement here on Whosay.
Grammy Recap: Our Favorite Moments
The 55th Annual Grammy’s took place on Sunday, February 10th and our favorite country artists were well-represented with performances and more. It was impossible to pick a favorite moment, so we picked a few of the best…
Taylor Swift Brings in the Clowns: We’ve never been asked to open the Grammys (or much more than our own mail), but we’d assume it’s a big responsibility that comes with a ton of pressure. With her genre-bending, Alice-in-Wonderland-themed opener, Taylor Swift set the tone for a night of unforgettable performances with her hit about never, ever, ever, EVER getting back together. Although she nabbed a Grammy in the pre-telecast for her collaboration with the Civil Wars, it was her performance that had everyone buzzing. Most notably, there was that moment when she pulled her best Madonna, suddenly acquiring a British accent. Although much has been made about what that meant, we here at Keepin’ It Country have decided it could’ve only been aimed in one direction…
POLL: Grammy – Record Of The Year
Thank-you for voting in our Grammy polls, please keep it up! There are some battles going on right now. Make sure you check them out!
We posted the polls for all of the Grammy country categories, but we thought we would do one more for fun!
This category isn’t in the country genre but two of our own, Taylor Swift & Kelly Clarkson, are nominated for “Record of The Year.”
Who do you want to win?
Grammy - Record Of The Year
- Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) - Kelly Clarkson (92%, 22 Votes)
- We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together - Taylor Swift (8%, 2 Votes)
- Lonely Boy - The Black Keys (0%, 0 Votes)
- We Are Young - Fun. ft. Janelle Monae (0%, 0 Votes)
- Somebody That I Used To Know - Goyte ft. Kimbra (0%, 0 Votes)
- Thinkin Bout You - Frank Ocean (0%, 0 Votes)
Total Voters: 24
Loading ...Kelly Clarkson on the Cover of People Magazine
Kelly Clarkson is gracing the cover of People Magazine’s latest issue, on newsstands Friday, February 8th. Inside, the star gushes about finding love with her new fiancé Brandon Blackstock.
Kelly talks about how she finally cracked the code as to why she had never been in love before meeting Brandon:
“I was dating skinny jeans and I needed Wranglers.”
The artist also discusses details about her wedding, including her wedding dress and engagement ring. She also discusses their plan for the wedding to be an “earthy” fall wedding outdoors at their home.
Kelly is currently busy working on two new albums and also preparing for this Sunday’s (02/10) Grammy Awards where she will perform.
Be sure to pick up this issue of People Magazine this Friday!
Photo credit: People Magazine
First Listen: Jewel & Kelly Clarkson Duet on “Foolish Games”
Although Jewel‘s Greatest Hits CD doesn’t hit stores until next week, the Internet is already all a-flutter with anticipation. While the album features many of her biggest known tracks, including “Hands,” “Who Will Save Your Soul,” and “Standing Still,” it’s the special duets that have people salivating. Jewel enlists the Pistol Annies on her classic “You Were Meant For Me,” and Kelly Clarkson on “Foolish Games.” The results? Purely eargasmic.
Take a listen to Jewel & KC, and let us know what you think!
