Kelly Clarkson took on a bold fan request on August 10, 2012, in Clarkston, MI, covering Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” during her concert at the DTE Energy Music Theatre. Clarkson prefaced her performance by acknowledging the challenge of rapping live, calling it a “brave” choice and even joking with the audience, saying she hoped they’d still come to future shows if she didn’t do the song justice. With a lighthearted twist, she borrowed a gray hoodie to set the mood, playfully quipping about going from “Texas to thug” as she stepped into character for Eminem’s gritty anthem.
As Clarkson performed the intense and lyrically intricate track, she retained her unique style, bringing her powerful voice and a sing-song twist to the lyrics while respecting the song’s original energy. Known for including fan-requested covers throughout her tour, Clarkson had already impressed audiences with diverse covers ranging from Shania Twain to Madonna. However, her cover of “Lose Yourself” was particularly memorable, showcasing her versatility as an artist willing to step outside her comfort zone and experiment with different genres.
The audience’s reaction was overwhelmingly positive, appreciating Clarkson’s effort to honor one of Michigan’s most iconic artists, especially at a venue so close to Detroit, Eminem’s hometown. The performance underscored Clarkson’s playful, fearless approach to her live shows, further endearing her to fans as an artist who genuinely enjoys connecting with her audience through unexpected song choices.
