In today’s music landscape, few artists protect their sonic identity as closely as Lana Del Rey. Famed for her cinematic sadness and nostalgic Americana aesthetic, Del Rey seldom comments publicly on interpretations of her songs. That’s why it turned heads when Kelly Clarkson — the original American Idol and one of pop’s most versatile vocalists — delivered a powerhouse rendition of one of Del Rey’s most intricate tracks. The performance didn’t just captivate viewers; it drew rare, enthusiastic praise from the famously reserved singer-songwriter.
A Bold Reinvention
As part of her widely loved “Kellyoke” segment on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Clarkson chose to tackle “Off to the Races,” a standout from Del Rey’s 2012 breakthrough album Born to Die. The original version is a whirlwind of rapid-fire lyrics, hip-hop influences, and breathy, high-pitched vocals that embody Del Rey’s dark, stylized glamour.
Clarkson approached the track from a completely different angle. Trading in the hushed indie delivery for her unmistakable rock-soul grit, she transformed the song into something muscular and urgent. The trip-hop textures were replaced with fuller instrumentation, and the once-whispered lines became bold, belted declarations. It wasn’t just a cover — it was a reinvention.
A Rare Reaction from Lana
Known for keeping her thoughts private, Del Rey surprised fans by openly applauding the performance. “I’m absolutely obsessed with this version,” she reportedly shared, praising Clarkson’s fearless song choice. Instead of opting for a global hit like “Summertime Sadness,” Clarkson selected a deeper cut — a move Del Rey appreciated.
According to sources, Del Rey admired the added intensity Clarkson brought to the track, noting that the raw vocal power introduced a new kind of emotional force. Where the original leaned into stylized mystique, Clarkson’s interpretation radiated unapologetic strength.
The Power of “Kellyoke”
Clarkson’s “Kellyoke” series has become a viral mainstay, often racking up millions of views within a day. Her covers routinely breathe new life into beloved songs, and “Off to the Races” was no exception. The performance sparked renewed interest in the original track across streaming platforms — a testament to Clarkson’s cross-generational appeal.
Critics frequently describe Clarkson as a “vocal chameleon,” capable of shifting between subtle contemporary styles and soaring arena-ready belts. That flexibility allows her to honor a song’s roots while still making it distinctly her own.
When Two Worlds Meet
Clarkson’s reinterpretation reflects a broader trend of major pop voices revisiting alternative icons. Similar to how Miley Cyrus brought a gritty edge to Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” Clarkson’s take on Del Rey’s catalog earned admiration from its creator. The exchange underscores a shared respect between artists operating in different corners of the pop spectrum.
Del Rey crafts haunting, poetic soundscapes. Clarkson injects fire and soul. Together — even indirectly — they proved that a great song can evolve without losing its essence. In giving “Off to the Races” a fresh surge of energy, Clarkson didn’t just perform it. She reintroduced it, reminding listeners that powerful vocals can open even the most carefully guarded artistic worlds.