Kelly Clarkson, the powerhouse vocalist and pop music sensation, is perhaps best known for her chart-topping hits and unforgettable performances. Rising to fame as the inaugural winner of American Idol in 2002, Clarkson has cemented her place in pop culture with her unmistakable voice and impressive vocal range. However, there is an often-overlooked aspect of Clarkson’s career that deserves as much attention as her vocal ability—her remarkable songwriting skills.

While many of her songs have been crafted by a team of skilled songwriters, Clarkson has written or co-written a number of tracks that reveal her deep connection to the music she performs. These songs not only showcase her vocal prowess but also her ability to connect with her audience on an emotional level through lyrics that come from personal experience. This article takes a deep dive into five of Clarkson’s most memorable songs that she either wrote or co-wrote, shedding light on her hidden talent as a songwriter.

1. “Because of You” (from Breakaway)

Few songs in Kelly Clarkson’s catalog resonate as deeply as “Because of You.” Released as a single from her 2004 album Breakaway, the song is a deeply emotional exploration of heartbreak, personal trauma, and emotional scars. Clarkson co-wrote the song with David Hodges and Ben Moody, and it is widely considered one of her most vulnerable and personal tracks.

Because of You was inspired by Clarkson’s turbulent relationship with her parents and the emotional toll it took on her. The lyrics are raw and honest, capturing the feeling of being unable to escape the past and the lasting effects of emotional abuse. “Because of you, I never stray too far from the sidewalk,” she sings in the opening line, setting the tone for a song that confronts the pain of being shaped by toxic relationships.

Despite its heavy subject matter, “Because of You” became a commercial success and is regarded as one of Clarkson’s signature songs. The song’s vulnerability, combined with Clarkson’s powerful delivery, struck a chord with audiences, and it has since become one of her most enduring hits. For Clarkson, the song marked a breakthrough moment in her songwriting career—showing the world that she was not just a singer but a deeply introspective artist.

2. “Already Gone” (from All I Ever Wanted)

While “Already Gone” may not have been as commercially successful as some of Clarkson’s other tracks, its emotional depth and introspective lyrics make it one of her best songwriting achievements. Co-written by Clarkson and Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic, the song was released as part of her 2009 album All I Ever Wanted.

The song’s lyrics convey the pain of a relationship that has already ended, but the emotional healing that comes with accepting its end. It’s a poignant ballad that explores the inevitability of letting go, even when the heart is not yet ready. Clarkson’s poignant delivery and the song’s understated production allow the emotional depth of the song to shine through.

Despite being a commercial misstep compared to some of her other hits, “Already Gone” remains a fan favorite and is often cited as a standout track from All I Ever Wanted. Its quiet, introspective nature and the rawness of the lyrics demonstrate Clarkson’s ability to delve into complex emotions and communicate them through song. “Already Gone” is a perfect example of Clarkson’s talent for writing songs that resonate deeply with listeners on a personal level.

3. “Breakaway” (from Breakaway)

The title track of Clarkson’s second studio album, Breakaway, is an anthem of independence, self-discovery, and the desire for freedom. Written by Clarkson, with a team that included Kara DioGuardi, the song is an empowering declaration of a person breaking free from the constraints of their past and stepping into their own identity.

Breakaway was released in 2004, just as Clarkson was transitioning from American Idol star to a fully-fledged pop artist. The song’s message of growth and change resonated with listeners who, like Clarkson, were yearning for something more out of life. It’s a song about liberation and embracing the unknown, themes that would define much of Clarkson’s music in the years to come.

The song’s upbeat pop-rock style and relatable message made it a commercial hit, earning widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike. It became an anthem for those looking for a fresh start and was one of the standout tracks on the Breakaway album. Breakaway was a defining moment in Clarkson’s career, both musically and personally. It showcased her ability to write empowering anthems that connected with people on a deep, emotional level.

4. “Since U Been Gone” (from Breakaway)

Perhaps one of Kelly Clarkson’s most famous songs, “Since U Been Gone” remains a landmark in pop music history. Released as the lead single from Breakaway, the song’s catchy pop-punk sound and fierce lyrics turned it into an instant anthem of female empowerment. Written by Clarkson, Max Martin, and Dr. Luke, “Since U Been Gone” is a song about liberation and finding strength after a breakup.

What makes “Since U Been Gone” particularly special is how it marries Clarkson’s powerhouse vocals with an edgy, punk-inspired sound that was a departure from her previous ballads. The song’s bold lyrics—“Since you been gone, I can breathe for the first time”—celebrate the freedom that comes with ending a toxic relationship. Its catchy chorus and electrifying energy made it a smash hit, topping the charts and becoming a staple in pop music.

The song’s success not only solidified Clarkson’s status as a pop force to be reckoned with but also demonstrated her ability to write songs that captured the zeitgeist of the time. “Since U Been Gone” became an anthem for anyone who had ever experienced a tough breakup, and its rebellious energy continues to inspire fans around the world. Clarkson’s songwriting prowess shines through, and the song remains one of her most iconic releases to date.

5. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” (from Stronger)

Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You) is another anthem of resilience, empowerment, and personal growth. Co-written by Clarkson with a team of collaborators, including J.R. Rotem and David Hodges, the song was released as the lead single from her fifth studio album Stronger in 2011.

The song’s lyrics are a testament to Clarkson’s strength in overcoming obstacles and finding empowerment in the face of adversity. It’s a bold, upbeat anthem that celebrates overcoming hardship and emerging stronger on the other side. “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” Clarkson sings, offering listeners a message of hope and strength.

The song’s infectious chorus and upbeat pop-rock style helped make it an international hit, and it became one of Clarkson’s most successful songs to date. Its message of resilience resonated deeply with fans, and it continues to be a favorite for those seeking motivation and encouragement in difficult times.

Conclusion: Kelly Clarkson’s Gift for Songwriting

Kelly Clarkson’s career has been defined by her exceptional vocal talent, but it is her songwriting that truly sets her apart as an artist. Throughout her career, she has written or co-written a number of songs that explore themes of heartbreak, personal growth, resilience, and empowerment. The five songs discussed here—Because of You, Already Gone, Breakaway, Since U Been Gone, and Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)—showcase Clarkson’s talent for crafting deeply personal lyrics that resonate with listeners on a universal level.

These songs not only highlight Clarkson’s ability to connect with her audience but also demonstrate her versatility as a songwriter. Whether she’s writing about the pain of a breakup or the triumph of personal growth, Clarkson’s lyrics are always honest, raw, and relatable. In addition to her powerhouse vocals, it’s her gift for songwriting that makes her a true icon in the music industry.

Clarkson’s songs continue to inspire fans around the world, and as she evolves as an artist, her songwriting will undoubtedly remain at the heart of her music. Fans can only hope that she will continue to share her personal stories through her lyrics, offering a glimpse into her life and emotions with each new release. With a catalog of songs that spans multiple genres and touches on a wide range of emotions, Clarkson’s songwriting career is one that will undoubtedly continue to inspire for years to come.