Kelly Clarkson took the stage after her American Idol victory and delivered a soul-shaking rendition of Aerosmith’s classic Cryin’. Her voice—raw, powerful, and dripping with emotion—turned the song into something entirely her own. I’ve heard plenty of covers, but this? This was different. Every note, every lyric felt lived-in, as if she had pulled the heartbreak straight from her own life. For years, I swore nothing could touch Steven Tyler’s voice—his rasp, his fire, the way he made you feel every word. But then came Kelly. And for the first time, I questioned everything. She isn’t just great. She’s the best of the best.

Kelly Clarkson’s affinity for Aerosmith’s music has been evident throughout her career, with notable performances that showcase her versatility and powerful vocals.

Early Career Performances

In 2003, during her “Kelly Clarkson in Concert” tour, Clarkson included Aerosmith’s “Eat the Rich” in her setlist. This choice highlighted her ability to tackle rock anthems and pay homage to iconic bands.

Recent Covers on “The Kelly Clarkson Show”

More recently, Clarkson has revisited Aerosmith’s catalog during the “Kellyoke” segment of her daytime talk show, “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” On October 26, 2020, she delivered a stirring rendition of “Cryin’,” capturing the song’s raw emotion and demonstrating her vocal prowess.

Fans praised this performance, noting her ability to convey the song’s intensity.

Following this, Clarkson took on “Dream On,” another Aerosmith classic, further cementing her reputation for masterfully covering challenging rock songs.

Conclusion

Kelly Clarkson’s performances of Aerosmith’s “Cryin’,” both in her early career and more recent endeavors, exemplify her versatility and enduring admiration for classic rock. Her ability to reinterpret such iconic tracks continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing her dynamic range as an artist.

For a visual experience of her recent cover, you can watch the performance below: