Kelly Clarkson’s newest album, Chemistry, is an emotional rollercoaster that delves into her public divorce from talent manager Brandon Blackstock. The 14-track set is filled with piercing lyrics that reflect the pain and turmoil she experienced during this difficult time in her life.
Clarkson attributes many of the songwriting moments to her flights back home after dropping off her children to her ex-husband. She describes these moments as some of the hardest she had to endure, as she was physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted. It was during these flights that she found solace in writing songs and processing her emotions, revealing the raw emotions that come through in the album.
The album opens with the song “down to you,” which she wrote during her marriage. The lyrics are blunt and powerful, expressing her frustrations and emotions during that time. She sings, “I hear you started running your mouth again/Biting hands that feed ya.” It is evident that she was going through a tough period in her life and needed an outlet to express her feelings.
The track “red flag collector” portrays her anger and frustration during her divorce. She sings, “Sure, you can have the towels/You can take my money/Drag my name ‘round town/I don’t mind I changed it anyway.” This song showcases her boldness and refusal to let her ex-husband’s actions affect her. She is determined to move on and find happiness.
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In the interview, Clarkson addresses the title of the album and how she came up with it. She mentions that she jokingly thought of naming it “On the Way Back” because many of the songs were written during her flights back home. However, she ultimately chose “Chemistry” to encapsulate the emotions and tensions that arise during a divorce.
The conversation then shifts to her song “i hate you,” where she references iconic movies like The Notebook and It’s Complicated. Clarkson explains that she loved The Notebook but wanted to emphasize the difference between the love shown in movies and what real relationships are like. She also shares her admiration for Steve Martin, who she asked to collaborate on the song. Despite not being able to meet him in person during the recording, she was grateful that he agreed to be a part of the project.
Another interesting track on the album is titled “Rock Hudson,” named after the iconic actor. Clarkson reveals that she has always had a crush on him and references him in the song as a metaphor for the kind of love she thought she had found in her marriage. She reflects on how things turned out differently from what people expected and how appearances can be deceiving.
Clarkson also touches on her 2015 single “Piece by Piece,” which was about growing up without her father and watching her ex-husband tend to their first-born child. She explains that the song was initially hopeful, but over time, she realized that she had made choices that weren’t healthy for her. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing red flags in relationships and not holding onto false hope.
In conclusion, Chemistry is a powerful and introspective album that showcases Kelly Clarkson’s journey through her divorce. The lyrics are raw, intense, and deeply personal, allowing listeners to connect with her on a profound level. Despite the pain and turmoil she experienced, Clarkson remains resilient and determined to find happiness.
