Kelly Clarkson – Meaning of Life

[Focus]

[Focus]

AllMusic





Favorite Pop Albums - Pop music went in countless directions this year, as artists like Paloma Faith and Bleachers embraced sophistication, a liberated Kesha proudly followed her own muse, while former One Direction members went solo, with Niall Horan dipping his toe into '70s rock and Harry Styles delivering an ambitious debut.


Bleachers

Gone Now
4/5 stars

The project's hyper-literate, hyper-emotional pop meditations are even more vivid, detailed, and satisfying the second time around.



Calvin Harris

Funk Wav Bounces, Vol. 1
4/5 stars

Leaving EDM behind, the Scottish producer assembles an all-star roster of rap, R&B, and pop guests for his nostalgic beachside getaway.


Charlotte OC

Careless People
4/5 stars

The sultry, gothy, R&B-tinged debut from British vocalist Charlotte OC featuring production from Tim Anderson.


Demi Lovato

Tell Me You Love Me
3.5/5 stars

Lovato gets carnal on this modern R&B album.



Dua Lipa

Dua Lipa
4/5 stars

Brimming with the confidence of a seasoned vet, this excellent pop debut strikes a deft balance between attitude and vulnerability.


Harry Styles

Harry Styles
3.5/5 stars

The first solo album from the former One Direction singer shows admirable ambition and solid songs, and showcases his impressive vocal style.


Hurts

Desire
4/5 stars

The stylish British duo embrace a buoyant, romance-steeped pop sound on their fourth studio album.


Imelda May

Life. Love. Flesh. Blood
4/5 stars

A dusky, bittersweet break-up album featuring rootsy production from T-Bone Burnett.


Kelly Clarkson

Meaning of Life
4/5 stars

Kelly Clarkson gets soulful.


Kesha

Rainbow
4/5 stars
A rich, moving -- and occasionally fun and funny -- comeback from Kesha.


Lorde

Melodrama
4/5 stars

Lorde broadens her sonic and emotional palette on her excellent second album.


Meresha

Enter the Dreamland
4/5 stars
Smart, effervescent, and forward-thinking progressive pop from the innovative singer/songwriter.


MisterWives

Connect the Dots
4/5 stars

Infectiously buoyant sophomore set from the New York sextet that piles grooves upon a joyous '80s-influenced indie pop sound.


Niall Horan

Flicker
4/5 stars

Influenced by Fleetwood Mac and the Eagles, this satisfying set of guitar-based love songs is the solo debut from the former One Directioner.

Paloma Faith

The Architect
4/5 stars

The British vocalist's fourth album is a sophisticated production full of '70s style R&B grooves.


Paramore

After Laughter
4/5 stars

Overcoming yet more lineup changes, Paramore return with a buoyant, '80s new wave-tinged fifth album.


Soulwax

From Deewee
4/5 stars

After over a decade, the Belgian electronic-rock duo return with their thrilling eighth set, which was recorded in just one take.


Trevor James Tillery

Together. Alone
4/5 stars

Masterful debut from the progressive pop singer/songwriter that swells with emotion and sonic textures inspired by Radiohead.


Walk the Moon

What If Nothing
4/5 stars

The Ohio quartet follow "Shut Up and Dance" with their third LP of glimmering, technicolor dance-rock.


Zara Larsson

So Good
4/5 stars

Living up to its title, this sophomore set from the Swedish singer puts youthful abandon and empowerment at the fore of a great pop collection.

[Unhinged]

So Kelly finally moved up to No. 2 on AC with "Christmas Eve" today! I believe it's her 3rd Christmas song to reach the Top 2. Kelly has a total of 6 Top 10 Christmas songs on the format. :)

[traveler]

This is the first Kelly Clarkson album I've ever purchased (I actually pre-ordered it on iTunes). Tracks 8-11 I am obsessed with, but I also love "Move You" and "Love So Soft". I think my favorites on the album though are "Cruel" and "I Don't Think About You". I'm not sure how they would fare as singles, but I'd really love to hear IDTAY on the radio. I think it would be refreshing and different, and could potentially be a big seller with a nice live performance of just her vocals and a piano.

[Deleted]

I was bopping to If I Can't Have You early today.
AIEW may be super far from her best work, but it definitely had its gems and jewels.

[imreadynow]

Dec 23, 2017 23:20:47 GMT -5 @mirza said:

I was bopping to If I Can't Have You early today.
AIEW may be super far from her best work, but it definitely had its gems and jewels.

AIEW is such a solid pop album, I love it. If I Can't Have You had some really great live performances too.

[musicfan134]

The Day We Fell Apart remains one of her best songs EVER.

That was the album that made me a stan.

[Deleted]

MOL is my fave Kelly album now.
I'm in love with every song.

[Deleted]

Dec 3, 2017 23:50:32 GMT -5 Censor said:

Dec 3, 2017 23:28:23 GMT -5 @nostalgic said:

7. Wrapped In Red

Get out.

It's not bad but I don't like to compare a Xmas album to normal albums.

[spaceykSVP1999]

Dear WMG, like Spike Lee said, do the right thing: “Medicine,” Kelly C feat. Cardi B.

[jenglisbe]

FUSE played the "Wrapped In Red" video during its 2 hours of Christmas videos this morning.

[QAF]

Aside from a few posted Christmas songs by Kelly, I did not listen to Wrapped in Red once this holiday season. :|I know that's bad but I have had MOL on rotation without interruption since it came out.

[BDGeek]

Played Meaning of Life for my parents today. After the high note in "Medicine," my dad exclaimed, "There aren't many white women who could pull this off!"

#queenofmillennialsandbabyboomers

[Focus]

[born]

Four of my absolute favorite albums of 2017. Mr. Hautman got it right!

[Albie]

She killed on "Christmas Eve" and "All I Ask of You"! Any performances of "Wrapped In Red" I can watch? I have become re-obsessed with it after this Christmas.

[Unhinged]

Dec 28, 2017 12:14:47 GMT -5 Albie said:

She killed on "Christmas Eve" and "All I Ask of You"! Any performances of "Wrapped In Red" I can watch? I have become re-obsessed with it after this Christmas.

Not sure if you’ve seen this vocal master class performance of “Wrapped in Red” from her 2013 Xmas special. It’s devine.

[AP]

Kelly is presenting an award at the Golden Globes on Jan 7. NBC coming thru with that promo!

[Focus]

[Focus]

Newsday Top 30 albums of 2017...


Best albums of 2017
By Glenn Gamboa
[e-mail]
Updated December 26, 2017 8:22 AM


Tumultuous times yield great art. And 2017 proved the rule. Artists in a wide variety of genres have taken the inspiration of recent turmoil and turned it into music that often shines a light on serious issues or that focuses on the unexpected moments of peace and joy.

Here’s a look at the albums that did it best this year:


snip

10. Kelela, “Take Me Apart” (Warp)
Kelela, “Take Me Apart,” on Warp Records.
Photo Credit: Warp Records

The allure of Kelela is stunningly simple. Sure, Janet Jackson singing an album of Björk songs may sound like an impossible dream, but Kelela takes that concept to the next level.

9. Margo Price, “All American Made” (Third Man)
Margo Price’s “All American Made” on Third Man
Photo Credit: Third Man Records

You can practically hear Margo Price blossom from country traditionalist to undeniable country superstar.

8. Afghan Whigs, ‘In Spades’ (Sub Pop)
Afghan Whigs' "In Spades" on Sub Pop Records
Photo Credit: Sub Pop

Like a noir film come to life, “In Spades” masterfully moves from the soaring intensity of “Arabian Nights” to the epic, howling exit of “Into the Floor.”

7. Justin Townes Earle, ‘Kids in the Street’ (New West)
Justin Townes Earle's
Photo Credit: New West

Earle offers an Americana thrill ride filled with classic country, blues, a bit of rock, plenty of humor and a whole lot of great storytelling, starting with the brilliant “Champagne Corolla.”

6. Kelly Clarkson, “The Meaning of Life” (Atlantic)
Kelly Clarkson's
Photo Credit: Atlantic Records

Clarkson has had finer singles, but “Meaning of Life” is the best album of her career, a chance to declare her ambitions and deliver on them time and time again for her most cohesive album yet.

5. Sorority Noise, ‘You’re Not As ___ You Think’ (Triple Crown)
Sorority Noise, “You’re Not As ___ You Think”
Photo Credit: Triple Crown

The Hartford indie rockers, led by Cam Boucher, address death from multiple viewpoints, all told with heartbreakingly realistic touches, even if the often-rocking emo backdrop suggests otherwise.

4. Randy Newman, 'Dark Matter' (Nonesuch)
Randy Newman's
Photo Credit: Nonesuch Records

Comparing the nine songs here to the bulk of pop music today is like comparing LeBron James to the middle school kids playing hoops in the park. It’s stunning how much better these songs are than “regular” songs.

3. Lorde, “Melodrama” (Republic)
Lorde's "Melodrama" on Lava/Republic Records
Photo Credit: Republic Records

Lorde’s breakthrough “Royals” was stunning in its stark simplicity — portraying life in black and white. “Melodrama” is a burst of colorful layers, from the dance anthem “Green Light” to the ballad “Liability,” which somehow manages to sound lush and glam-rock though she’s backed only by a piano.

2. Jay-Z, “4:44” (Roc Nation)
"4:44" new album by JAY-Z on Tidal. Released
Photo Credit: Roc Nation

Over his previous 12 albums, Jay has rarely been this vulnerable. On “4:44,” he shows how grateful he is for all that he has and how he plans to work hard to keep it… Jay is taking the tough road to staying on top — by being better than everybody else.

1. Kendrick Lamar, ‘DAMN.’ (Top Dawg/Aftermath/Interscope)
Kendrick Lamar, “DAMN. (Aftermath/Interscope)
Photo Credit: Aftermath/Interscope

On his fourth album, K.Dot sounds like a man backed into a corner who comes out swinging. His rhymes still fly fast – seemingly even faster than before, thanks to the spare arrangements – but always hit hard enough to do damage, even when he’s musing about loyalty with Rihanna or commanding, “Sit down. Be humble.”
www.newsday.com/entertainment/music/best-albums-2017-1.13766887

[Albie]

Thank you Unhinged. Totally stellar performance of WIR. I was just wondering if I'd missed her performing it this season or even last.

If I may add, we are seriously considering moving our wedding to the winter time due, in part, to the fact that we'd love WIR to be our first dance.

[QAF]

I wish Kelly was performing at the Golden Globes.

[Focus]

[keeptheflowers]

Dec 28, 2017 12:19:23 GMT -5 Unhinged said:

Dec 28, 2017 12:14:47 GMT -5 Albie said:

She killed on "Christmas Eve" and "All I Ask of You"! Any performances of "Wrapped In Red" I can watch? I have become re-obsessed with it after this Christmas.

Not sure if you’ve seen this vocal master class performance of “Wrapped in Red” from her 2013 Xmas special. It’s devine.

My favorite performance of one of my favorite songs. I love "Wrapped in Red" even more than "Underneath The Tree". That song deserved more.

[pce2b]

I still would rank Winter Dreams as the number one missed single opportunity yet. At least WIR had its time in the sun.

[QAF]

Winter Dreams is one of my all time favs. I can't believe I didn't listen to it once this year. :|

[musicfan134]

We can't even begin to discuss Kelly's best Christmas song without throwing Every Christmas in the mix.

[dbhmr]

The ranking is:

1. Underneath the Tree - A+
2. Winter Dreams - A+
3. Every Christmas - A+
4. Wrapped In Red - A
5. Christmas Eve - A-
6. 4 Carats - B

The first four are some of her strongest pop writing. They’re excellent. She kills this genre.

[bb]

^ just so correct in every way.

[Focus]

From Beyonce To Kelly Clarkson, The Best Awards Show Performances Of 2017


As 2017 comes to a close, we are rounding up the good, the bad and the ugly in all things pop music. In the last few days, we have revisited some of the year’s best music videos and photoshoots as well as the strongest Latin-pop and K-Pop releases. Today, we are turning our attention to the year’s best awards show performances. We have compiled a list of 15 of the most memorable sets. Remind us of any we might have missed in the comments below.

15. Logic, Alessia Cara and Khalid’s “1-800-273-8255” at the VMAs

Making use of simple but striking staging, Logic and his collaborators delivered one of the year’s most evocative performances with their call for equality, love and acceptance at the Video Music Awards. Joined by a group of suicide survivors, they imparted a message to anyone watching: You are not alone.

14. Dua Lipa’s “New Rules” at Radio 1’s Teen Awards

After finding viral success with its accompanying music video, Dua Lipa offered some advice with a performance of the year’s defining breakup anthem, “New Rules.” Armed with her distinctive voice, she recreated a girl power moment at the Radio 1 Teen Awards.

13. Lady Gaga and Metallica’s “Moth Into Flame” at the Grammys

Mother Monster cemented her status as one of the most versatile pop stars by collaborating with rock legends at the Grammys. Amidst a sea of flames she showcased the lower register of her voice and was effortlessly cool as she sauntered across the stage.

12. Pink’s “Barbies” at the CMAs

Simple staging and powerful lyrics made Pink’s surprise performance at the Country Music Awards an absolute standout. The bittersweet track resonated with a stark beauty as the Beautiful Trauma hitmaker imbued it with even more power for its debut performance.

11. Fifth Harmony’s “Down” and “Angel” at the VMAs

The girl group threw some memorable shade at former member Camila Cabello as they took the stage to perform a medley from their new album. They also delivered live vocals and choreography for one of their best-staged sets.

10. Camila Cabello’s “Havana” at the Latin American Music Awards

The budding solo paid tribute to her heritage with a Spanglish rendition of her breakout solo single “Havana.” She and a horde of dancers ensured the number was one of the spiciest of the evening, and an extended dance break offered Camila an opportunity to show off her flamenco skills.

9. Mary J. Blige and A$AP Rocky’s “Set Me Free” and “Love Yourself” at the BET Awards

Taking the stage in a bedazzled silver two piece, Mary J. Blige was supported by a live band and delivered an empowering performance before being joined by her collaborator. Entering in a bout of smoke, A$ASP Rocky brought the fire for his verses.

8. Bruno Mars’ “That’s What I Like” at the Grammys

It is physically impossible for Bruno Mars to miss the mark while onstage, but his carefree rendition of “That’s What I Like” at the Grammys was particularly excellent. The smooth number was supported with simple choreography and ended with some chill-inducing harmonizing with his backup singers.

7. Kesha’s “Learn to Let Go” at the EMAs

Resplendent in an iridescent suit, Kesha performed her inspiring, pop-saving “Learn To Let Go” in the center of a rainbow at the European Music Awards. Her first awards show performance of the year was a joyful moment that showcased her path to healing from previous darkness.

6. Kelly Clarkson’s “Miss Independent” and “Love So Soft” at the AMAs



America’s original Idol showcased how far she has come at the American Music Awards. Performing a medley of one of her first singles and her latest, her splendid vocals, gorgeous costume and brilliant staging provided the ultimate diva moment.

5. Kendrick Lamar’s “DNA” and “HUMBLE” at the VMAs

Kendrick Lamar opened the VMAs with the evening’s boldest set. Performing amidst some advanced pyrotechnics and lighting, the 30-year-old made a powerful statement regarding police brutality before bringing the heat with a medley of his standout releases.

4. BTS’ “DNA” at the AMAs

For their first performance at an American awards show, the K-pop supergroup delivered enviable choreography and a masterclass on stage presence. As the group sets their sights on establishing sustained crossover success in American markets, their memorable performance will prove to be groundbreaking.

3. Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” at the BBMAs

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the release of Titanic, Celine’s voice is as commanding and heart-stopping as ever on the film’s signature ballad. Garbed in a glorious white gown, she delivered the evening’s most arresting moment from within a crystal chandelier.

2. Pink’s “Beautiful Trauma” at the AMAs

Pink vowed that her performance at the AMAs would be her most daring ever, and she stayed true to her word by bringing the title track of her new album to life from atop Los Angeles’ JW Marriott. She and a crew of aerialists had one of the most jaw-dropping moments in history as they scaled the building’s walls and executed a series of complicated flips from hundreds of feet in the air.

1. Beyonce’s “Love Drought” and “Sandcastles” at the Grammys

Beyonce became a literal goddess at the Grammys this year. Heavily pregnant, the Lemonade singer delivered a stunning multi-media display, which effortlessly blended screens, projections and brilliant staging. In a golden gown and headdress, she delivered an empowering message for women around the globe and created a moment that will further cement her legacy as one of the most beguiling performers ever.

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