Kelly Clarkson released her sixth studio album, Piece By Piece (via RCA Records) on February 27th. Featuring writing collaborations with Sia, Matthew Koma, Greg Kurstin, Audra Mae, Kara DioGuardi, Jason Evigan and more and production from Mr. Kurstin, Jason Halbert, Steve Mostyn, Eric Olson, Jesse Shatkin, Chris DeStefano and Warren “Oak” Felder, Piece By Piece will likely debut in the No. 1 position on the Billboard 200 for the week ending March 8th. To celebrate the latest release from American Idol‘s first global superstar, I’m THRILLED to be giving away 3 digital download copies to 3 lucky U.S./Canadian winners. Check BELOW for details on how to enter.

In listening to the first few songs on Piece By Piece for the first time—I found myself more than a little bit disappointed. Where are the up-tempo “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” type bangers? Yes, I love Kelly Clarkson belting out a ballad as much as the next gay, but I also like my Kelly Clarkson club-cuts. I mean, HELLO! “Since U Been Gone,” “Walk Away,” “Never Again,” “Miss Independent.” And the list goes on…

Thankfully, by track 8, the album starts to pick up steam (and tempo), starting with the Sia/Greg Kurstin co-write “Let Your Tears Fall” (a clear standout for me). The Sir Nolan (Nick Jonas, Christina Aguilera) co-penned “War Paint” is another up-tempo dance/pop banger and personal favorite of mine. I’m also partial to “Dance With Me,” “Nostalgic” and the album’s closer, a beautiful mid-tempo called “Good Goes The Bye.” Even the 3 bonus tracks from the Deluxe Edition of the album are more exciting than the first 2/3 of the album—including the Greg Kurstin-produced, Bonnie McKee co-write “Bad Reputation” and the absolutely stunning “In The Blue.”

A common criticism I keep reading online centers around how Clarkson only penned 3 tracks on the record…well, 5 if you’re talking about the Deluxe Edition. While I sort of understand why people are disappointed, I don’t really think Kelly has anything to prove at this point. Additionally, we should remember Kelly was very pregnant during the writing sessions for this album—something she alluded to during an intimate live show at the iHeartRadio Theater in New York City last week. While Kelly has always collaborated with other songwriters throughout her career, there’s no denying her ability to write a hit song—”Behind These Hazel Eyes,” “Because Of You,” “Walk Away,” “Sober,” “Already Gone” come to mind. I say we give her a break. six albums in, I think she’s earned it.

In addition to having a brand new album out, Kelly Clarkson has announced a big-ass tour to promote it! Joining Kelly on this summer’s Piece By Piece tour will be global a capella sensations, Pentatonix and singer/songwriter Eric Hutchinson. The tour kicks off July 11th in Hershey, Pennsylvania and concludes September 20th in Camden, New Jersey (including 2 dates at New York City’s prestigious Radio City Music Hall). Tickets go on sale Saturday, March 14th via Live Nation. Get them here.

Pick up a copy of Piece by Piece on iTunes or wherever you buy your music. Fellow vinyl geeks (like myself) can pre-order the vinyl edition of album, out March 23rd.

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4_6N-k5VS4&feature=youtu.be]

Check out Kelly Clarkson Online:
Official Site || Facebook || Twitter || YouTube || Instagram

[contact-form-7 404 "Not Found"]