Kelly Clarkson got to sing with one of her biggest country music idols. She held it together the best she could.
On “The Kelly Clarkson Show” last night, Garth Brooks was the guest. Prior to him appearing on stage she explained how she’s been a fan since she was a little girl.
Inspiration Behind the Hit
About 10 years ago, she saw him live at his Las Vegas shows. While she has heard about his crazy, exciting live performances, this show was the most intimate one she’s ever seen.
“He’s just sitting there like we’re in his living room and not only singing his songs but then he’s also singing James Taylor and Billy Joel,” Clarkson said on the show. “He’s singing all these other artists that inspired him.”
She then introduces him onto the stage as the best selling U.S. solo artist of all time. He has sold 156 million units and counting.
The two discuss his new upcoming work, such as his “Fun” album and his remastered live shows, before eventually landing on one song in particular. “The Dance” came to be after he was told that it was actually just not country enough. However, he knew as soon as he heard it that he loved the song.
“If you don’t record ‘The Dance’ it’ll be the biggest hit you never had,” Brooks said he was told.
He whips out his guitar on stage and only gets the opportunity to sing the first two words “looking back.” Then, Kelly Clarkson is covering her face in her cardigan trying to hide her excitement. Once she composes herself, he goes on to sing:
“And now, I’m glad I didn’t know / The way it all would end / The way it all would go / Our lives are better left to chance / I could have missed the pain / But I’da had to miss / The dance.”
Kelly Clarkson’s Connection to ‘The Dance’
The best part of it all his Clarkson chiming in herself to sing a few lines with Brooks. After he’s done singing, Clarkson talks about her recent divorce to Brandon Blackstock.
The song that is helping her cope with her divorce is in fact, “The Dance.” Clarkson explained that it was difficult to grasp and cope with the feeling of loss during it all. She knew she didn’t regret the marriage but was also in pain. She shared that “The Dance” inspired a new song on her next album. Clarkson sang a line from the unreleased song.
“Even though my heart is broken, it was worth the dance anyways.”
Clarkson has a talent for being able to sing in many genres. While a lot of her music is more pop-focused, her roots are country. Judging by her reaction, it’s clear to see how deeply impactful this moment was for her with Garth Brooks.
