A throwback Kelly Clarkson performance shows just how effortlessly the singer and talk show host can turn any classic song into her own.
During the December 1, 2020 episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, Clarkson turned back the clock and revived an old favorite — the haunting and powerful “Blue Bayou.” The song incorporates elements of pop and country, making it a perfect track for Clarkson to have performed for that episode’s edition of Kellyoke.
As much as many music fans consider Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “Blue Bayou” as the definitive version, Clarkson is arguably just as powerful:
Watch Kelly Clarkson sing “Blue Bayou” here.
Clarkson’s backing band, Y’all, is more subdued and low-key than usual on the song, letting the American Idol winner’s vocals shine. “Blue Bayou” contains many unforgettable and challenging high notes — and unsurprisingly, Clarkson nails them all with grace, barely straining her voice in the process.
It doesn’t get any better than hearing Clarkson croon, “If I could only see / That familiar sunrise through sleepy eyes / How happy I’d be.”
The fact that the entire stage is enveloped in a warm blue light makes the performance even more magical. It’s such a vibe!
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In a 2022 TikTok featuring a clip of her performance, Clarkson captioned the video by confessing, “‘Blue Bayou’ is one of my favorite songs by one of my all-time favorite artists, the legendary #lindaronstadt.”
What to know about “Blue Bayou”
Originally performed and recorded by Roy Orbison in 1961 — who co-wrote the tune along with Joe Melson — “Blue Bayou” became an international hit for the American ballad singer. More than a decade and a half later, in 1977, Linda Ronstadt recorded a cover version of the track that would become one of her most popular songs.
Ronstadt’s cover peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 Top Ten and #2 on the Hot Country Songs charts.
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While the track has been covered by countless artists over the years, one stands out: In 2023, Mariska Hargitay memorably broke out into “Blue Bayou” while giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at the iconic Law & Order: Special Victims Unit set — and yes, she hit all of those unbelievable high notes, too.
If watching this vintage Clarkson clip gets you in the singing mood, you’re in luck — Clarkson returns to her Coach Chair in The Voice: Battle of Champions, premiering February 23, 2026, exclusively on NBC.
She’ll be joined by fellow Voice all-stars like John Legend and Adam Levine as the three Coaches compete in what may be the most unpredictable season yet.