SATURDAY NIGHT REVIEW: KELLY CLARKSON IN CONCERT
I openly admit that I voted for Kelly Clarkson several times during Season 1 of American Idol. That was the first and last time that I ever called in to support a reality TV show contestant. I remember exactly when and why I picked up the phone. It was Big Band week, and I literally jumped off of the couch with applause when she just nailed it with the song “Stuff Like That There.” Honestly, I have not watched an entire season of that show since. After Kelly, I simply lost interest.
It is rare that I purchase actual CDs anymore; I much prefer to buy songs on an individual basis through iTunes. But I own all 3 of Kelly’s. Because her music can be both addictive and infectious. And the girl can flat out SING. Those pipes are unbelievable live.
A new friend of a good friend hooked us up with amazing seats – fifth row center (thank you, A&A!). I believe that my ears have been re-pierced, thanks to the gaggle of screaming girls behind us. But the crowd was great, and Kelly put on a hell of a show. The kids AND their moms knew the lyrics to every song, and they jumped when she jumped. Which happened often. Kelly is…aerobic. I was impressed.
It seems to me that Kelly has not changed at all since she debuted in our living rooms a few years ago. She doesn’t use foul language either on her albums or live, and she isn’t provocative for publicity; it is refreshing and unusual among her contemporaries. Kelly seems genuinely appreciative of how she got her start in the industry and also recognizes that the fans were responsible for kick-starting her career.
That being said, this is the not the Kelly Clarkson you watched on American Idol. This is an artist who has grown tremendously, a pop/rock star in her own right, and a successful woman who has transcended far beyond the expectations of a pop culture nation.
It’s well worth the price of admission to see Kelly live (just bring earplugs for the pre-teen screams). And if you haven’t already, give My December another listen or two. She really brings the stories behind the music to life in person, and the new songs in particular benefit from that.
Good times, and good night!