The first crowned winner of the popular Fox show, now entering its 11th season, released her fifth studio album, Stronger, on Oct. 24.
The first single, “Mr. Know It All” is currently in the Top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100 and climbing steadily.
After previous controversy involving RCA during her third LP, “My December,” which placed her in opposition with record industry veteran Clive Davis, and a lack of promotion for her previous album, fans are anxious to see the success that grows out of
her present release.
The project continues her trend of radio-friendly pop tunes, produced by the latest hitmakers, including Brian Kennedy, Greg Kurstin, Toby Gad and Ester Dean. Stronger kicks off with “Mr.Know It All,” a sassy mid-tempo guaranteed to be an anthem for those who have been ridiculed and demeaned. She continues this message with the title track, “What Doesn’t Kill You (Stronger).” Clarkson is known for empowering rock anthems and she certainly delivers this time around.
But one of Clarkson’s other, and maybe the most important, talents is her voice, something for which her critics laud her.
Her voice soars on ballads such as “Honestly” and “Standing In Front Of You,” which has a more country feel to it – something Clarkson is familiar with due to her Texan roots. One of the big standout songs is “You Can’t Win,” the songstress favorite from the album.
The uptempo number deals with feeling insecure due to society’s pressures saying, “If you’re thin/poor little walking disease/if you’re thick/ They’re all screaming obese.” These messages are a testament to Clarkson’s style and display a love and support for her diverse fan base.
Despite the fact that Clarkson has stuck to her consistent formula and usual producers, it all works in her favor.
The album is a welcomed addition to her catalogue right along with previous efforts including Breakaway, which has become her signature album.
Stronger was released in its physical and digital form earlier on Oct. 24 and Clarkson will make appearances on the X Factor, the 2011 American Music Awards, Late Night With Jimmy Fallon and other shows to promote her long awaited, emotionally empowering, fifth album.
