For the past 10 years after claiming the first American Idol title, Kelly Clarkson has made quite a name for herself in the pop world with smash hits like "Since U Been Gone," "Walk Away," "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)," and "Catch My Breath" just to name a few. During that time, Kelly has also captured the hearts of country fans with hit duets with Reba McEntire ("Because of You") and Jason Aldean ("Don't You Wanna Stay").
Kelly's ties to country have become even stronger as she has recently released songs like "Mr. Know-It-All" and the chart-climbing "Don't Rush" from her latest album Greatest Hits – Chapter One. Plus, she earned her very first nomination in the Female Vocalist of the Year category at the 2012 CMA Awards… And, did we mention she's engaged to Reba's stepson Brandon who works with Blake Shelton?
In January, Kix interviewed Kelly when she took a break from her busy schedule to visit the Ponderosa. They talk about the difficulties of people limiting the boundaries of music, Kelly's country music-lovin' background and joke about trying to pull the wool over Reba's eyes when it comes to Kelly's wedding plans. Plus, Kelly shares a cause very close to her heart – Houses of Hope – and talks about the importance of giving back.
Image: Jill Greenberg/RCA Records
