Kelly Clarkson set off a wave of instant fan reactions after revealing the four artists she considers the greatest vocalists of all time. In a behind-the-scenes video from “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” the original “American Idol” and current coach on “The Voice” shared her personal “Mount Rushmore of Music,” naming a mix of legendary icons and a few surprise choices. Fans quickly jumped into the comments to praise her picks, debate the omissions, and even argue that Clarkson herself deserves a spot among the all-time greats.
Mount Rushmore of Music
In the new Instagram video, the “Since U Been Gone” singer was asked to name her “Mount Rushmore of Music.” That means she had to name four music legends whose faces she would hypothetically put on the famous memorial sculpture.
In the video, Clarkson says, “So, this is my Mount Rushmore of Music, and I’m feeling the pressure.” It seems like an obvious choice for Kelly, but her first pick was Aretha Franklin.
Kelly states, “Aretha Franklin has to be up there. She’s like, one of my ultimates.”
She goes on to pick Rosemary Clooney, stating she was choosing artists based on their vocal ability. Clarkson then states, “I gotta go all over the map because I love vocalists, right? I’m gonna go all over the map.”
That’s exactly what she did, which is what got fans talking. Her next pick was Steven Tyler.
Kelly said, “He’s amazing,” as she started to imitate some of the Aerosmith frontman’s iconic vocals.
Kelly’s final choice was another obvious pick, which vocal director and backup singer for the show, Jessi Collins, agreed. Collins said, “I mean, there’s no one like her.”
Of course, they were referring to Whitney Houston, who was indeed Clarkson’s fourth and final pick.
A Debate In the Comments
After posting the video, fans quickly commented their thoughts on Kelly’s four picks. Of course, the Steven Tyler pick got some feedback.
One person wrote, “Steven Tyler over Frank Sinatra or Otis Redding? 😳,” while another added, “Steven Tyler over Freddie Mercury or Robert Plant is insane.”
Most fans agreed with her other choices, with one person writing, “Omg I was bout to be like, if she don’t say Whitney… 😅” This person wrote, “I love that Rosemary made it up there ❤️.”
Then the love for Kelly came out, as people had to let her know that she belongs up there too.
This fan wrote, “Kelly forgot to save room for herself 😉 Because she certainly belongs up there ❤️🥰❤️.” Another added, “Kelly Clarkson is on mine,” while another one wrote, “kelly i’d put you on all of them cause dang your vocals are amazing.”
Who would be on your Mount Rushmore of Music?
David Bowie, Stevie Nicks, David Byrne and Tony Carey are mine.
Whitney, Celine Dion, Kelly Clarkson, and Adele
No Karen Carpenter?