Kelly Clarkson had already put her own spin on Riley Green’s “Worst Way” before the country singer joined her as a coach on The Voice. Now, their shared place on the show’s Season 30 panel has brought her earlier Kellyoke performance back into focus—and prompted fans to wonder whether the two might perform together.
Clarkson sang Green’s romantic country hit on The Kelly Clarkson Show, where the Kellyoke segment features her interpretations of songs by artists across genres. Rather than imitate Green’s recording, she brought her own phrasing and powerful vocals to the song while keeping its romantic feel. The performance drew an enthusiastic response from the studio audience.
Afterward, Clarkson praised Green and encouraged viewers to check out his music. She also noted that he had described “Worst Way” as one of the biggest moments in his live shows. Her interest in his work, then, was on display before the two were set to share a coaching panel.
A welcome with a competitive edge
Green announced his coaching role on Instagram, writing that people could start calling him “coach” and that he would see them in the fall. The announcement included a video of a voicemail from Clarkson welcoming him to The Voice. She said she was excited to coach alongside him and explained that she had been especially pleased to hear he was joining the show.
The message was warm, but not without a challenge. Clarkson teased that Green would need practice because Team Kelly planned to win. She also sent him a customized Voice chair, giving him a chance to try out one of the show’s best-known features: turning toward a singer during the Blind Auditions. Green tested it and joked that he could get used to the experience.
Clarkson brings substantial experience to the panel. Season 30 marks her 11th stint as a coach; she previously coached for 10 seasons and won four times. Green is entering the coaching role for the first time. Adam Levine, who returned after winning Season 29 with Alexia Jayy, and Queen Latifah round out the four-person lineup.
A duet remains only a possibility
Clarkson’s cover has given the pair a ready-made musical connection, but no duet has been confirmed. A performance of “Worst Way” would bring together Green, the song’s original artist, and Clarkson, who has already offered her own interpretation. For now, their on-screen coaching partnership—and the friendly rivalry in Clarkson’s welcome—are the confirmed points of connection.
Their collaboration on The Voice gives viewers a chance to see how their musical styles and personalities work together. Whether that eventually leads to a shared performance remains an open question.
