Kelly Clarkson Honors Reba McEntire With a Soul-Stirring “How Blue” Cover on The Kelly Clarkson Show
During a recent episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, Kelly Clarkson paid heartfelt tribute to her longtime hero — and former mother-in-law — Reba McEntire with a breathtaking rendition of “How Blue.” The performance, part of her beloved Kellyoke segment, showcased Clarkson’s effortless ability to cross genres while honoring the roots of classic country.
A Timeless Song, Reimagined
Originally released in 1984, “How Blue” became one of McEntire’s early signature hits. Decades later, Clarkson breathed new life into the track, balancing reverence with her own emotional depth. Backed by her house band, Y’all, she delivered a stripped-down, acoustic version that let her powerhouse vocals shine.
“Oh honey, why did you leave me / Ain’t you got a heart left in your chest?” she sang, her voice brimming with heartache and warmth. Dressed in a flowing skirt and simple white top, Clarkson’s presence was understated yet commanding — a testament to her ability to let the music speak for itself.
Fans Can’t Get Enough
The cover quickly went viral, drawing praise from fans and country music lovers alike. Comments poured in across YouTube and social media:
“Kelly has such a beautiful, natural country voice. The Queen of every genre!”
“One of my favorite Reba songs. You can sing anything, young lady!”
Many noted how Clarkson managed to both honor McEntire’s legacy and bring her own soulful edge to the song — a delicate balance few artists can achieve.
A Decade-Long Connection
Clarkson and McEntire’s musical bond runs deep. The two first shared the stage in 2007 for their unforgettable duet of “Because of You,” blending their voices in a performance that became an instant classic.
In 2018, Clarkson once again paid tribute to McEntire — this time at the Kennedy Center Honors in Washington, D.C. Fighting back tears, she told the audience that Reba had been her lifelong musical inspiration.
“I’ve been a fan of Reba since I was a little girl,” Clarkson said. “Her voice has always felt nostalgic for me. Even as an adult, there’s something about her tone and her storytelling that just feels like home.”
She went on to reflect on their personal connection, saying:
“Sometimes when we meet our heroes, it doesn’t always pan out how you hope. But meeting Reba — being friends with her, and eventually becoming family — has been one of the highlights of my life.”
A Tribute From the Heart
With this latest Kellyoke performance, Clarkson once again reminded fans why she’s one of the most authentic voices in music today. Her rendition of “How Blue” wasn’t just a cover — it was a love letter to Reba McEntire, to country storytelling, and to the kind of songs that never go out of style.