I'm Back- Thanks To Kelly Clarkson For Motivating Me!

Kelly Clarkson reminded me last night why I love music and motivated me to start up my blog again.

Putting on one of the best shows I've seen in a long time, Clarkson exhibited her love of music too- pop, rock, electronic, blues and country. Throughout the night she talked about her love for various genres of music, which she showcased through various duet partners and song choices. American Idol friend Tamyra Gray joined Clarkson for a soulful rendition of "When You Believe", the Whitney Houston/Mariah Carey duet. Michelle Branch appeared shortly after on The Wreckers country hit "Leave The Pieces." Early in the set Clarkson threw in a Florence + The Machine cover, saying at the end she "hopes to expose her fans to new music"- who does that?

The night was filled with special guests, the next bigger than the last. I thought the roof was going to blow off the Nokia Theater when Clarkson introduced Blake Shelton to sing Jason Alden's part on "Don't You Wanna Stay." Shelton's welcome was just a warm up for the thunderous response that occurred when Clarkson invited her idol, country legend Reba McEntire onstage. During the encore they belted out Clarkson's hit "Because of You", which they previously recorded for McEntire's 2007 Duets album.

When Clarkson wasn't joined onstage by one of her famous friends, she was rolling through her numerous hits, showcasing those vocal chops that made her America's first Idol. For nearly two hours she entertained us with her down-to-earth personality and sense of humor. She talked about the songs and how they came about, much like a country artist- oh, that's right, she's managed by Narvel Blackstock, Reba McEntire's husband.

In the end I could tell Clarkson really enjoys what she does and is very appreciative of her career. Few artists could incorporate so many genres of music into one show and hold the interest of the audience like Clarkson did. She could move between laser lights and big pop hits to humanitarian video and ballads because she believes in and loves everything she does up there and that's contagious.