Kelly Clarkson and Garth Brooks Deliver a Heartfelt Rendition of “Shallow” on The Kelly Clarkson Show

On December 14, the stage of The Kelly Clarkson Show became a space for magic and emotion when Kelly Clarkson joined Garth Brooks for a stunning performance of “Shallow,” the iconic ballad originally performed by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper in the 2018 film A Star Is Born. While this performance was an unexpected treat for fans, it was also significant for another reason—Brooks was promoting his new album Fun, which includes a duet version of “Shallow” with his wife, Trisha Yearwood. Due to Yearwood’s absence, Clarkson stepped in as an impromptu duet partner, and what followed was a rendition that showcased both artists’ remarkable vocal talents.

A Special Duet

The chemistry between Clarkson and Brooks was palpable from the first note, with the pair effortlessly blending their voices to create an emotionally charged rendition of the song. Clarkson’s powerful and emotive delivery brought a fresh depth to the well-known lyrics, while Brooks’ rich, country-infused voice provided a grounding counterpoint. The combination of Clarkson’s vocal power and Brooks’ skillful guitar accompaniment brought new life to the song, making it feel both intimate and expansive.

“Shallow” is a song about vulnerability, yearning, and self-discovery, and Clarkson and Brooks’ interpretation of the track beautifully captured these themes. As the two performed, the audience was visibly moved by the raw emotion in their voices and the way they seemed to communicate through the lyrics, adding a layer of authenticity to the song that resonated deeply with everyone in the room.

A Memorable Performance

This impromptu duet came after Brooks and Yearwood had already performed the song together earlier that year, during Brooks’ Facebook Live series. The couple’s version was widely praised, with their palpable connection and shared chemistry transforming the song into a memorable experience for viewers. However, with Yearwood unable to attend the taping of The Kelly Clarkson Show, Clarkson’s decision to step in as a temporary duet partner only added to the surprise and excitement of the moment.

Brooks and Yearwood’s performance of “Shallow” had already been a standout moment for fans, but Clarkson’s version with Brooks brought a new dynamic to the table. Clarkson, known for her powerful range and ability to bring vulnerability to her music, added her own touch to the song, making the performance feel fresh and exciting. Brooks, a country music legend in his own right, paired perfectly with Clarkson, demonstrating that the emotional depth of the song transcends genre boundaries.

A Beautiful Homage to the Original

While Clarkson and Brooks’ rendition of “Shallow” was undoubtedly unique, it also served as a beautiful homage to the original version performed by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper. The emotional weight of the song was still there, but it took on a new flavor with the different vocal textures and the country music influence that Brooks brought to the table. In many ways, this performance underscored the timelessness of the song’s message—the search for authenticity and the vulnerability that comes with love and self-exploration.

The duet not only delighted fans of both Clarkson and Brooks, but it also highlighted the power of collaboration between artists from different musical worlds. Clarkson, whose background in pop and pop-rock is widely known, paired seamlessly with Brooks, who has spent decades mastering the country music scene. Their voices, which could not be more different in terms of genre, came together in perfect harmony, demonstrating that music, at its core, is about feeling and connection—no matter the style or background of the artists.

A Song That Resonates Across Generations

The performance also underscored the enduring impact of “Shallow” on audiences. Since its release, the song has become one of the most recognizable tracks in recent memory, gaining widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and vulnerability. The version performed by Clarkson and Brooks took that same emotional weight and delivered it in a way that felt personal to their own artistry, while still respecting the original composition. Their rendition reminded viewers of the power of music to evoke strong emotions and bring people together.

For Clarkson, whose career began with her win on American Idol and whose voice has graced everything from pop hits to holiday albums, the performance of “Shallow” also demonstrated her versatility as an artist. For Brooks, whose career in country music has spanned over three decades, the performance was a chance to showcase his adaptability and respect for other genres. Together, they delivered a performance that was both an homage and a reinvention of one of the biggest songs of the decade.

Conclusion

Clarkson and Brooks’ rendition of “Shallow” on The Kelly Clarkson Show was more than just a performance—it was a powerful tribute to a song that has touched millions. Their chemistry, combined with the emotional depth of the song, created a moment that resonated deeply with the audience, reminding us of the timeless nature of music and the ways in which it can cross boundaries and bring artists from different worlds together. As Garth Brooks continues to promote his album Fun and Kelly Clarkson continues to make her mark on the music industry, this surprise duet will undoubtedly remain one of the standout moments of the year.