Kelly Clarkson’s “Wide Awake” Cover Wows Katy Perry: “I Can Never Sing That Again”
Kelly Clarkson‘s reign as queen of covers continues. The Kelly Clarkson Show host tackled Katy Perry‘s “Wide Awake” during a recent episode, delivering a powerful stripped-down rendition that left Perry herself speechless (well, almost).
Clarkson, known for her powerhouse vocals, opted for a more intimate approach with “Wide Awake.” Accompanied only by her show’s musical director, Jason Halbert, she slowed the ballad and let her impressive range shine. The performance quickly went viral, eventually catching the attention of Perry.
Taking to Instagram, Perry jokingly commented on a clip of the performance: “Ok dang I can never sing that again.” The playful comment reflects the overwhelming praise Clarkson’s cover received online. Fans reassured Perry that her original version remains a favorite, with some even suggesting a future duet.
Originally released in 2012 as part of Katy Perry: Teenage Dream – The Complete Confection, “Wide Awake” served as a personal anthem for Perry. Inspired by major life changes, including her divorce from Russell Brand, the song and accompanying music video explored themes of self-discovery and navigating life’s challenges.
“It’s kind of like the labyrinth of my life in the last two years,” Perry told MTV at the time. “‘Wide Awake’ tells a story about going through this journey, maybe sometimes trying to get out of the maze.”
The track became a huge commercial success, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Clarkson’s cover is just another example of her talent for reimagining popular songs. The “Stronger” singer has become a viral sensation thanks to her “Kellyoke” segment, where she regularly tackles hits from across genres. Previous covers like her rendition of the Eagles’ “Desperado” and Billie Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever” have garnered widespread acclaim.
See why Kelly Clarkson has Katy Perry singing her praises (and why fans can’t get enough) by watching her “Wide Awake” cover below.
