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Kelly Clarkson’s Riley Green Cover Resurfaces as They Prepare to Coach on The Voice

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Kelly Clarkson had already put her own spin on Riley Green’s “Worst Way” before the country singer was announced as her fellow coach on Season 30 of The Voice. Their new on-screen partnership has renewed interest in her Kellyoke performance—and prompted speculation about whether the pair might sing together. No duet has been announced.

Clarkson performed Green’s romantic hit on The Kelly Clarkson Show, reworking it with her own vocal style rather than imitating the original recording. The performance drew an enthusiastic response from the studio audience. Afterward, Clarkson praised Green’s music and encouraged viewers to check it out, making clear she was a fan before they were set to share the coaching panel.

A warm welcome, with a competitive edge

New "Voice" Coach Riley Green Receives Surprise Message From Kelly Clarkson
New "Voice" Coach Riley Green Receives Surprise Message From Kelly Clarkson

Green announced his Voice role on Instagram. The post included a video of him receiving a voicemail from Clarkson, who said she was excited to coach alongside him and welcomed him to the show. She also joked that he would need to practise because Team Kelly would be tough competition.

Clarkson sent Green a customised Voice chair as a welcome gift, giving him a chance to try out the show’s signature rotating seat. Green tested it in the video and responded with enthusiasm. The exchange offered a playful introduction to their working relationship, though their coaching partnership—not a musical collaboration—is what has been confirmed.

Season 30 marks Clarkson’s 11th stint as a Voice coach. The original American Idol winner has guided contestants to victory four times. Green joins the panel for his first season as a coach, bringing his experience as a country artist to the competition. Adam Levine also returns after winning Season 29 with Alexia Jayy, while Queen Latifah completes the four-coach lineup.

A possible duet remains speculation

Clarkson’s earlier take on “Worst Way” gives the two singers a musical connection before the new season begins. A performance together could pair Green, the song’s original artist, with Clarkson, who has already interpreted it on her talk show. But neither a duet nor a specific performance has been confirmed.

For now, viewers can look forward to seeing the artists work alongside—and compete against—one another on The Voice. Clarkson’s appreciation for Green’s music and their lighthearted exchange have added an extra point of interest to his arrival on the coaching panel.