In an engaging recount of a night filled with music and camaraderie, singer Brandi Carlile shared a delightful anecdote about Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire’s karaoke performance at the wedding of Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert in 2011. During a recent episode of the Las Culturistas podcast, Carlile recounted how the two music icons took the stage together, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that extended far beyond the typical wedding celebrations.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Reba-McEntire-Kelly-Clarkson-050126-82ad760d3ff4425787b5cc9abdd52397.jpg)
Carlile, who was present at the nuptials, remembered the joyous occasion vividly. She had the honour of singing “The Story” as the couple made their way down the aisle. When the ceremony concluded, the festivities shifted into full swing, and the karaoke machine became the focal point of the after-party. “Everybody was getting drunk and singing karaoke, and Kelly Clarkson was there and Reba McEntire was there,” Carlile reminisced, emphasising that the duo were thoroughly enjoying themselves and were reluctant to end the night.
The enthusiasm of McEntire, a country music legend, and Clarkson, a pop powerhouse, led to a prolonged performance that not only captivated the guests but also impacted the logistics of the evening. As Carlile recounted, the shuttle buses that were scheduled to take guests back to their hotels were delayed due to the pair’s spirited rendition of McEntire’s classic hit “Fancy.” “I remember the whole shuttle bus was waiting for Reba McEntire,” Carlile noted, showcasing just how engrossed the attendees were in the entertainment.
As she waited on the shuttle, Carlile found herself enchanted by the harmonies emitted from the karaoke stage, with McEntire’s familiarity and Clarkson’s powerful vocals blending seamlessly. “These bitches are everything everybody hopes they are and no one knows,” she remarked on the duo’s chemistry, reinforcing her affection for both artists.
Though it has been several years since that celebration, McEntire and Clarkson’s friendship has remained strong. Clarkson has expressed deep admiration for McEntire throughout her career. Their close ties were further highlighted when Clarkson paid tribute to McEntire at the 2018 Kennedy Center Honors, covering “Fancy” in honour of the revered artist. Clarkson spoke warmly about her long-standing admiration for McEntire, saying, “Her voice has always felt nostalgic for me.”
The connection between the two artists goes even deeper, as Clarkson began dating McEntire’s then-stepson, Brandon Blackstock, around the same time that Shelton and Lambert’s wedding took place. Clarkson and Blackstock were married for nearly seven years before their separation in 2020. Sadly, Blackstock passed away in 2022, but the friendship between Clarkson and McEntire continues to thrive.
Back on the podcast, Carlile took the opportunity to praise Clarkson’s exceptional vocal talent. She described Clarkson as an “actual freak” because of her incredible ability to navigate her vocal range seamlessly. Carlile marveled at how Clarkson’s head voice blended effortlessly with her full voice, showcasing both control and stability in her performances.
As fans and followers of both McEntire and Clarkson, Carlile’s anecdotes provide a glimpse into the vibrant musical community that thrives behind the scenes. The bond between these artists not only enriches their lives but also creates memorable experiences for those lucky enough to witness them perform together. Their love for music, friendship, and the joy of sharing a stage continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
The 2011 wedding may be a distant memory, but the legacy of that night persists, marking a delightful chapter in the intertwining lives of these remarkable women in the music industry. As they continue to excel in their respective careers, the stories of their camaraderie will no doubt inspire and entertain fans for years to come.