Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media, Inc.
In the most recent installment of the “Kellyoke” segment on her talk show, Kelly Clarkson once again delved into contemporary country music. Specifically, she chose to perform one of the currently popular songs on country radio, Lainey Wilson’s nostalgic “Watermelon Moonshine,” a ballad that reflects on a dreamy and alcohol-infused first experience of love.
Similar to classic country ballads like “Strawberry Wine,” the song’s narrator vividly recalls every aspect of a significant day “right after senior year,” where she and her high school boyfriend “shared more than just our hearts, with the assistance of a mason jar.”
Wilson’s authenticity as a performer shines through, with lines like “parkin’ back in them kudzu vines” and “a-riding them old farm ruts” feeling natural in her Louisiana drawl. However, when covering the song on “Kellyoke,” Clarkson effortlessly adapted it to her own style without significant alterations. This is not surprising, considering Clarkson’s demonstrated versatility across her studio releases and numerous country covers in the “Kellyoke” series. Her rendition of “Watermelon Moonshine” is equally heartfelt and captivating, showcasing her ability to sing country music as convincingly as any other genre.
Wilson has experienced significant success in the past few weeks, particularly with her impressive five wins at the 2023 CMA Awards last week. Notably, she clinched the prestigious Entertainer of the Year award, the most sought-after recognition presented by the CMA. This marked Wilson’s inaugural nomination in the category, making her victory even more noteworthy.
