Kelly Clarkson is one of America’s sweethearts; a powerhouse vocalist, singer, songwriter and the first winner to grace the American Idol stage.
The 32-year-old singer has been in the spotlight ever since she tearfully sang “A Moment Like This” as she accepted her “Idol” win as a 20-year old.
Kelly Clarkson in 2002 after being crowned the first American Idol winner.
Fast forward12 years and the singer has released seven albums, toured the world, got married and has an adorable daughter named River Rose. Clarkson has proved herself as a likable, creative, determined and strong woman, yet she faces criticism in the media for her weight.
Recently, a controversial British journalist and TV personality, Katie Hopkins, tweeted nasty comments about Clarkson. Hopkins tweeted, “Jesus, what happened to Kelly Clarkson? Did she eat all of her backing singers? Happily I have wide-screen.” The Sun writer crafted a slew of other hateful tweets including, “Look chubsters, Kelly Clarkson had a baby a year ago. That is no longer baby weight. That is carrot cake weight. Get over yourselves.”
Hopkins went on to say during an “Access Hollywood” interview that, “Ultimately Kelly Clarkson is a chunky monkey… She’s fat, she needs to get out, eat less, and move more.” Hopkins went on to say that “I feel it’s my responsibility to point out to chubsters that they need to get up off their a**, stop costing me money as a taxpayer, and get out there and run a little bit more.”
Hopkins’ words are despicable. Of course, Clarkson is in the public eye and people will write about her. Clarkson’s weight has fluctuated over the years, but she is a beautiful and incredible singer that does not deserve to be targeted in such a conniving and ugly manner.
Clarkson performing at the 2013 Grammy’s. The singer has been criticized for her appearance but responds with empowering messages.
Body image and self-esteem are sensitive issues, especially for girls and women.
Clarkson was thrust into the limelight since she was 20-years-old and has grown up before our eyes.
It is unfair that women especially are targeted for their appearance.
We place such a high value on appearances and girls and women end up having jaded views and low self-esteems because of the environment that we live in.
Pop singers especially are supposed to fit a certain persona; to be sexy, gorgeous, skinny and hot. It is expected that they can wear a tight-glittery and revealing outfit, dance around and sing a hit song, all without missing a beat.
Men in the industry do not seem to be held in the same regard as far as appearances.
I remember watching “American Idol” with my family when I was in second grade. I remember the clunky home phone we used to dial in a vote for her. I played Clarkson’s “Breakaway” album so much I knew practically every lyric and song choice and would dance around and belt it out from my room. I sang “Behind these Hazel Eyes,” “Walk Away” and “Since U Been Gone” as if I was in an arena. I listened to all of her albums from elementary school through college. I feel as though I grew up with her, in a way. In my creative writing class in high school, my graduation project was about Clarkson’s life. My first concert was seeing Clarkson at the Susquehanna Bank Center for her “Stronger” Tour. Suffice it to say, I’m a fan.
Clarkson is admirable because she is unbelievably talented but so down to earth, real and true to herself. She exudes southern charm. After the success of “Breakaway,” Clarkson penned many songs on her “My December” album. The album features songs that did not fit into the typical bubblegum pop mold, but were insightful and artistic. The songs, such as “Never Again” “How I Feel” and “Irvine” are raw and emotional. She was determined to have the album made and I applaud her courage to fight for her work. Clarkson was performing, staying up late drained from tours and personal life and the album is integral to show people that it’s okay to not feel okay and the songs are cathartic.
Clarkson is able to have strong, powerful anthem such as “Stronger,” “Mr. Know it All” and “Miss Independent” that are catchy and fun. Her songs show the range of emotions and experiences a person goes through and fans can relate them to their own lives.
The Texas native should be proud of her accomplishments. She has sang at President Obama’s second inauguration, released platinum albums and has won three Grammy awards. Her Christmas album, “Wrapped in Red” was the best-selling Christmas album of 2013, which marks the first time a female artist achieved this feat. Clarkson has just released her new album “Piece By Piece” and is ready for a tour. Clarkson will continue to live her life and the hateful words will only turn into another massive hit song on the radio.
Clarkson responded to the critics, stating, ‘It doesn’t bother me. It’s a free world. Say what you will. I’ve just never cared what people think. It’s more if I’m happy and I’m confident and feeling good, that’s always been my thing. And more so now, since having a family — I don’t seek out any other acceptance.”
