Kelly Clarkson Delivers a Powerful Rendition of “What it Sounds Like” from *KPop Demon Hunters*
Kelly Clarkson recently put her signature spin on “What It Sounds Like,” a popular track from the Netflix animated film KPop Demon Hunters, during her Kellyoke segment on The Kelly Clarkson Show. The performance, posted on January 13th, has quickly garnered attention from fans and critics alike, showcasing Clarkson’s vocal prowess and emotional depth. This cover arrives on the heels of important success for both the song and the album it originates from, solidifying their place in contemporary pop culture.
A “Kelly-Pop” Transformation
Clarkson’s rendition of “What It Sounds Like,” originally performed by the fictional girl group HUNTR/X (comprising EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI), was lauded for its raw emotion and powerful delivery. She channeled the spirit of a “demon hunter,” as described in reports, bringing a unique intensity to the already compelling lyrics. The performance highlights Clarkson’s ability to seamlessly blend genres and infuse her own artistry into existing works.
The song’s lyrics, including lines like “I broke into a million pieces, and I can’t go back/ But now I’m seeing all the beauty in the broken glass,” resonated deeply with audiences, showcasing themes of resilience and self-finding. Clarkson’s vocal performance amplified thes sentiments, delivering a rendition that felt both personal and universally relatable.
The Success of *KPop Demon Hunters* and “Golden”
“What It Sounds Like” is a standout track from the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack,which achieved significant chart success. The song itself peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard hot 100 in September, while the full album topped the Billboard 200 chart. However, it was “Golden” that truly dominated the charts, spending an impressive eight weeks at No.1 on the Hot 100 in 2025.
The success of “Golden” culminated in a Best Original Song win at the Golden Globes, awarded just two days before Clarkson’s Kellyoke performance. This recognition further cemented the soundtrack’s place as a critical and commercial triumph.
Beyond the Music: Clarkson’s Personal Update and Show’s Continued Success
The Kelly Clarkson Show is currently in its seventh season and continues to be a popular daytime talk show. Recently, the show welcomed Arden Cho, the voice actress of Rumi from Demon Hunters, as a guest, bridging the gap between the show and the animated film’s universe.
In a recent segment, Clarkson also shared a personal update regarding her family, discussing how she has been navigating life following the passing of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. She revealed that her two children have been sleeping with her, finding comfort and connection during a difficult time. “There’s been a lot for our family recently, and so I have allowed my kids to sleep with me quite a bit,” she shared, highlighting the importance of family bonds during times of grief. “It’s my two dogs, my two kids and me. It’s a lot. It’s been really special, though, as the conversations you have during that time are pretty cute. So that’s probably my favorite time of day.”
Prior to this, Clarkson released her album Chemistry in 2023, which debuted at No. 6 on the Billboard 200, demonstrating her continued success as a recording artist.
The Enduring Appeal of Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson’s ability to connect with audiences through her music and her genuine personality has solidified her status as a beloved entertainer. Her Kellyoke segments, in particular, have become a highlight of her show, offering fresh interpretations of popular songs and introducing new music to a wider audience. Her cover of “What It Sounds Like” is a testament to her talent and her ability to breathe new life into existing works.
Watch Clarkson’s performance of “What It Sounds Like” here.
