In the annals of pop culture, few figures have maintained as resonant a presence as Kelly Clarkson. A testament to tenacity, talent, and unyielding authenticity, Clarkson’s journey through the turbulent waters of fame has been nothing short of remarkable. Her career, punctuated by towering achievements and deeply personal tribulations, offers a narrative as compelling as the music she creates. In a candid conversation with PEOPLE, Clarkson delves into the intimate realms of her life—her battles with depression, the raw aftermath of her divorce, and the unwavering strength she finds in her role as a mother and artist.

A Stage of Her Own

2023 stands as a year of striking highlights for Clarkson, yet one moment ascends above the rest: the instance when her children, River Rose, 9, and Remington Alexander, 7, joined her onstage during her Las Vegas residency. “They were a little nervous, but it was their idea, not mine,” Clarkson recounts. The significance of this moment, underscored by her children’s desire to share the stage with their mother, imbued the performance with an unparalleled sense of magic and authenticity.

River, taking the mic for a duet of “Heartbeat Song,” and Remington, dancing exuberantly as Clarkson belted out “Whole Lotta Woman,” embodied the unfiltered joy and connection that music fosters. “I was like, ‘I feel like how you’re looking at me is how you watch Spider-Man,’” Clarkson reflects, her voice tinged with the amazement and pride that only a mother can understand. It was a moment that transcended the usual spectacle of a concert, transforming into a poignant reminder of familial love and shared dreams.

The Journey from Idol to Icon

Kelly Clarkson’s ascent began with her victory on the inaugural season of American Idol in 2002. From that defining moment, she has forged a path that is uniquely her own. With ten studio albums, three Grammy Awards, and a host of other accolades, Clarkson’s career has been a study in versatility and resilience. Her latest album, Chemistry, nominated for Best Pop Vocal Album, serves as a testament to her enduring relevance and creative evolution.

Her tenure as a coach on The Voice and the success of The Kelly Clarkson Show further underscore her multifaceted talent. The talk show, which recently celebrated six Daytime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Daytime Talk Series and Host, reflects Clarkson’s ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. Relocating from L.A. to New York City for the show’s fifth season, she continues to expand her influence and presence in the entertainment industry.

A Residency Rooted in Reality

The Las Vegas residency, named after her album Chemistry, is an extension of Clarkson’s journey through her personal trials and triumphs. The collection of songs, born from the dissolution of her nearly seven-year marriage to Brandon Blackstock, captures the raw and unvarnished emotions of heartbreak, healing, and rediscovery. “When I started writing Chemistry, I didn’t see it other than: This is my outlet. I’m a let-go person; I don’t hold grudges,” Clarkson reveals. This approach, grounded in self-reflection and emotional honesty, allowed her to navigate the complexities of her life with a clarity and purpose that resonates through her music.

The Healing Power of Music

For Clarkson, the act of creating music serves as a crucial outlet for processing the intense emotions associated with divorce and grief. “I cannot express how appreciative I feel for having that kind of healthy outlet,” she says. The therapeutic nature of songwriting enabled her to confront and articulate the profound sense of isolation and sadness that accompanied the end of her marriage. “Because the level of depression and things that come with divorce or grieving is extraordinarily hard. You feel alone, and it’s just a blessing to be able to have that outlet for those emotions that are overwhelming.”

The release of Chemistry marked a pivotal moment in Clarkson’s journey towards reclaiming her personal agency. “Finally releasing it was like, ‘I’m taking my power back,’” she asserts. This declaration, imbued with a sense of liberation and self-empowerment, underscores the transformative potential of music and artistic expression.

Navigating New Beginnings

As Clarkson continues to build her life as a single mother in New York City, she embraces the unpredictability of the future with grace and optimism. Her role as an ambassador for Wayfair reflects her commitment to creating a nurturing and welcoming environment for her family. “Sometimes you don’t know what life has in store for you, and you think your life is going to go one way, and it’s OK that it doesn’t,” she muses. This acceptance of life’s inherent unpredictability allows Clarkson to approach each new chapter with a sense of openness and possibility.

A Mother’s Love and Resilience

The heart of Clarkson’s narrative is her unwavering dedication to her children. The bond she shares with River and Remington is a source of profound strength and inspiration. Through the highs and lows of her journey, Clarkson’s love for her children remains a constant, guiding her through the challenges and triumphs of her life. This deep connection, rooted in mutual admiration and respect, is a testament to the enduring power of familial love.

Embracing Therapy and Mental Health

Clarkson’s candidness about her mental health struggles and the importance of therapy offers a valuable perspective on coping with life’s adversities. “That sounds very therapy, but that’s because I love therapy, and I think it’s important to have those tools to navigate your life and relationships,” she shares. Her advocacy for mental health and the benefits of therapeutic intervention underscores the significance of seeking help and developing strategies for emotional well-being.

The Kelly Clarkson Show: A Platform for Connection

The Kelly Clarkson Show has become a beloved platform for Clarkson to connect with her audience on a deeply personal level. Through candid interviews, heartfelt performances, and moments of genuine vulnerability, Clarkson fosters a sense of community and shared understanding. The show’s success at the Daytime Emmy Awards is a testament to its impact and the authenticity that Clarkson brings to her role as host.

Looking Forward

As Clarkson looks to the future, she remains committed to her craft and her role as a mother. The release of Chemistry and the success of her Las Vegas residency are just the beginning of a new chapter in her storied career. With each step, Clarkson continues to inspire and connect with audiences around the world, her journey a testament to the resilience and transformative power of music.

Conclusion

Kelly Clarkson’s story is one of triumph over adversity, of finding strength in vulnerability, and of the enduring power of love and music. Her candid reflections on depression, divorce, and the healing power of artistic expression offer a valuable perspective on navigating life’s challenges. As she continues to evolve and inspire, Clarkson’s journey remains a beacon of hope and authenticity in the world of entertainment.