Kelly Brianne Clarkson (born April 24, 1982 in Fort Worth, Texas) is an American singer-songwriter and actress who has enjoyed success in the pop and rock music genres. Clarkson made her debut under RCA Records after she won the highly publicized first season of the television series American Idol in 2002. She was originally marketed as a pop musician with her debut album Thankful (2003). With the release of her multi-platinum sophomore album Breakaway (2004), Clarkson moved to a more pop rock-oriented style of music, and won two Grammy Awards. Clarkson's new album, entitled My December, is scheduled to be released in mid-2007.
2006-Present: My December
While on tour in Europe in 2006, Clarkson began writing and composing songs for her third album,My December. Three possible new songs from her upcoming CD were performed during the Addicted Tour, including "Maybe," "Anymore," and "Yeah". It is possible that it also may include the hit Ford Commercial song, "Go". Recording commenced on the album in the summer of 2006; Clarkson will likely release the new album in mid 2007. One of the guest musicians on the album will be punk rock legend Mike Watt (Minutemen, fIREHOSE, Iggy Pop & The Stooges), who contributes his bass skills to six tracks on the disc. According to Music Week and HMV, My December will be released in 2007. However, the actual release date, and track list have not yet been confirmed by management.
In addition to her roles as spokeswoman for the acne treatment Proactiv and Vitamin Water, Clarkson has partnered with NASCAR for the 2007 season. She will appear in televised advertising spots, perform at pre-race concerts, promote NASCAR Day and appear at the Champions' Banquet in December. Clarkson has also been confirmed to perform at one of the series of Live Earth dates on July 7, helping to bring awareness to the climate change crisis.
On February 18, Clarkson debuted the song "One Minute" at the Daytona 500.
The first single from My December is Never Again, which made its radio debut on April 13, 2007. The song was released on iTunes on April 20, 2007 but was taken down and replaced with a notice that said that the song was not available until April 23, 2007.
Clarkson and Reba McEntire recorded an hour-long CMT Crossroads special at Nashville's famed Ryman Auditorium on February 22, 2007. It is scheduled to debut on CMT and MHD in Fall 2007. Previously, Clarkson was a performer on CMT's Giants: Reba McEntire. where she sang McEntire's hit song "Why Haven't I Heard From You," introduced Dolly Parton, and later also sang Reba's hit "Does He Love You" with Martina McBride. Clarkson also appeared on an episode of McEntire's sitcom Reba, which aired on January 14, 2007. Kelly Clarkson will sing a duet with Reba on the Academy of Country Music Awards. Clarkson and McEntire will sing a cover of Clarkson's 2005 single, "Because of You," which will be the lead single from Reba's upcoming album of all-star duets.
My December Coming on 6/26/07! The new album, My December, is now set for release on 6/26/07! Links to pre-order it will be available soon. Stay tuned and spread the word!
