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The Bottom Line

Despite all the controversy over similarities in sound to Beyonce's "Halo," Kelly Clarkson's latest is a towering song in its own right. "Halo" made everyone feel warm and enveloped in love and security. "Already Gone" will break your heart, and Kelly Clarkson's delivery is nearly perfect here.

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Pros

• Vocals balanced between pain and cool resignation
• Moving lyrics

Cons

• That backing track similarity to "Halo" is just a little too similar

Description

• Written by Kelly Clarkson and Ryan Tedder
• Produced by Ryan Tedder
• Released August 2009 by RCA

Guide Review - Kelly Clarkson - "Already Gone"

Yes, when you first hear the backing track for Kelly Clarkson's single "Already Gone," you will be instantly reminded of Beyonce's "Halo." However, set those thoughts aside and you will be rewarded with hearing one of Clarkson's most powerful songs. The line, "We were always meant to say goodbye," sets the entire tone. Despite best efforts, some relationships are just never meant to last.

Kelly Clarkson shows off her range as one of today's best pop singers here. The tone of her vocals toe the line between underlying pain and an almost cold, removed sense of resignation. The effect is an utter lack of faith and hope for the future of the relationship described. Each line trails into an unknown, undefined distance. There is always an edge in her voice feeling as if she could be moved to tears, but she never allows herself to go over that line.

The powerful irony contained in "Already Gone" is that its stately backing track and slow, but steady beat would make it perfect for a slow dance. However, the tone and sentiment of the song would make it the most heartbreaking of songs for sharing a dance with a lover. This irony alone would put "Already Gone" on the short list of great breakup songs.