Kelly Clarkson Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)
Kelly Clarkson. A name synonymous with powerhouse vocals and genuine artistry.
Her discography is a compelling journey. It moves through pop, rock, soul, and heartfelt ballads with ease.
So, how do fans truly rank Kelly Clarkson's albums? We're diving into the releases that resonate most deeply with her dedicated listeners.
This exploration of the best Kelly Clarkson albums is guided primarily by fan discussions and sentiment.
Later, we'll also touch on how these albums fare based on current popularity data for another interesting perspective. Let's explore her amazing musical catalog!
Ranking Kelly Clarkson's albums: The fan favorites
Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.
We're starting with the most beloved.
1. Breakaway (2004)
Breakaway is Kelly Clarkson's celebrated second studio album. It marked a significant shift towards a pop rock sound.
The album was a conscious effort to move beyond her American Idol winner image. She collaborated with new songwriters and producers like Max Martin and Dr. Luke.
Critically acclaimed, Breakaway earned Clarkson a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Album. It also achieved massive commercial success worldwide, becoming her best-selling album.
Iconic singles such as "Since U Been Gone", "Behind These Hazel Eyes", and "Because of You" became worldwide hits. They solidified her status as a major force in pop music.
Key tracks:
- Since U Been Gone
- Because of You
Topping our fan-driven list, Breakaway clearly holds an incredibly special place in the hearts of Kelly Clarkson enthusiasts.
Its potent blend of anthemic hits and raw, relatable emotion continues to resonate deeply. Many fans view it as a defining moment in her already stellar career.
2. Thankful (2003)
Thankful is the debut studio album from Kelly Clarkson. It was released in the U.S. by RCA Records on April 15, 2003.
This album served as her grand introduction after winning the first season of American Idol. "Miss Independent" was its powerful first single.
Thankful debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200. It successfully launched her recording career, selling millions of copies.
Key tracks:
- Miss Independent
- A Moment Like This
Securing the second spot in our fan ranking, Thankful remains a cherished debut for many. It was the world's first taste of her incredible vocal talent.
The album's early hits still evoke a strong sense of nostalgia. They represent the very beginning of what has become a remarkable musical journey for Kelly Clarkson.
3. Stronger (2011)
Stronger is Kelly Clarkson's fifth studio album. It was released in October 2011.
Clarkson aimed to record her vocals as they are heard in live sets for this album. She used as little auto-tune processing as possible.
The album lyrically explores themes of heartbreak, vengeance, forgiveness, and empowerment. It debuted at number two on the Billboard 200.
Stronger won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Album. Its title track, "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)", became a massive global hit.
Key tracks:
- Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)
- Don't You Wanna Stay
Coming in at number three, Stronger is widely celebrated by fans. Its empowering message and Clarkson's vocal prowess are standout features.
The album's anthems of resilience clearly strike a powerful chord with listeners. They offer a shared sense of strength and perseverance through music.
4. My December (2007)
My December is Kelly Clarkson's third studio album. It was released in June 2007.
This album showcased a stronger rock influence compared to her previous work. Clarkson co-wrote every track, making it a very personal project.
Despite some initial controversy with her label regarding its darker tone, My December was certified platinum in the U.S. and Canada. It was well-received by many critics for its artistic depth.
Key tracks:
- Never Again
- Sober
Holding the fourth position, My December is often seen by fans as a bold and introspective work. It demonstrated Clarkson's growth as a songwriter.
Its raw honesty and rock-infused sound resonate with those who appreciate her willingness to explore deeper, more personal themes in her music.
5. Meaning of Life (2017)
Meaning of Life is Kelly Clarkson's eighth studio album. It was released in October 2017 by Atlantic Records.
This album marked her debut with Atlantic. It allowed her to pursue a soul and R&B-influenced sound she had long desired.
Inspired by 1990s music and iconic vocalists, Clarkson aimed for a soulful, emotive spirit. The album features themes of love and living in the moment.
Meaning of Life received positive reviews for its cohesiveness and Clarkson's confident vocal delivery. It debuted in the top three of the Billboard 200.
Key tracks:
- Love So Soft
- Whole Lotta Woman
At number five, Meaning of Life is appreciated by fans for its authentic embrace of soul and R&B. It showcased a refreshing artistic direction.
Many listeners connected with the album's joyful energy and Clarkson's evident passion for the material. It felt like a true expression of her musical roots.
6. Piece By Piece (2016)
Piece By Piece is Kelly Clarkson's seventh studio album. It was released in February 2015.
This was her final album under her contract with RCA Records. It featured collaborations with Greg Kurstin, Jesse Shatkin, and Sia, among others.
Inspired by orchestral production, Clarkson wanted each song to resonate like its own film soundtrack. The album explores themes of heartbreak, peace, and empowerment.
Piece By Piece debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The title track, particularly its "Idol Version", became a significant hit.
Key tracks:
- Piece by Piece - Idol Version
- Heartbeat Song
Ranking sixth, Piece By Piece connects with fans through its emotional depth and powerful storytelling. The vulnerability displayed is a key highlight.
The album's title track, especially after its poignant live performances, left a lasting impact. It showcased Clarkson's ability to turn personal experience into universal anthems.
7. chemistry (2023)
chemistry is Kelly Clarkson's tenth studio album. It was released in June 2023 through Atlantic Records.
The album illustrates "the arc of an entire relationship," according to Clarkson. It touches on every emotion experienced from beginning to end, influenced by her divorce.
chemistry features collaborations with Steve Martin and Sheila E. It debuted at number six on the Billboard 200, marking her ninth top-ten album.
The album received positive reviews, with critics praising Clarkson's voice and the emotional, sonic dexterity of the project. It was nominated for Best Pop Vocal Album at the Grammys.
Key tracks:
- favorite kind of high
- mine
Positioned at number seven by fan sentiment, chemistry is recognized for its candid exploration of complex emotions. It's a deeply personal record.
Fans appreciate the honesty and vulnerability Clarkson brings to this album. The intricate songwriting and vocal performances offer a cathartic listening experience.
8. All I Ever Wanted (2009)
All I Ever Wanted is Kelly Clarkson's fourth studio album. It was released in March 2009.
Following the darker tone of My December, this album saw Clarkson return to a more pop-oriented sound. She reunited with Max Martin and Dr. Luke.
The album was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. It featured hit singles like "My Life Would Suck Without You".
All I Ever Wanted received generally favorable reviews. Critics praised its mainstream appeal and Clarkson's strong vocal performances.
Key tracks:
- My Life Would Suck Without You
- Already Gone
At number eight in the fan ranking, All I Ever Wanted is often remembered for its infectious energy and radio-friendly hits. It marked a vibrant return to pop.
Fans enjoyed the album's upbeat tracks and signature Clarkson power ballads. It provided a dose of much-needed optimism and catchy hooks.
9. Wrapped In Red (2013)
Wrapped In Red is Kelly Clarkson's first Christmas album. It's also her sixth studio album, released in October 2013.
Produced by Greg Kurstin, the album features five original songs. It also includes eleven cover versions of Christmas standards and carols.
The album mixes pop, jazz, country, and soul influences. It debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 and topped the Top Holiday Albums chart.
Wrapped In Red was certified platinum. Its lead single, "Underneath the Tree", became a modern holiday classic.
Key tracks:
- Underneath the Tree
- My Favorite Things
While Christmas albums often hold a unique spot, Wrapped In Red lands at number nine in this broader fan ranking. It's a beloved holiday staple for many.
Fans adore Clarkson's joyful take on holiday classics and her own original contributions. "Underneath the Tree" has become an essential part of many Christmas playlists.
10. When Christmas Comes Around... (2021)
When Christmas Comes Around... is Kelly Clarkson's second Christmas album. It's also her ninth studio album, released in October 2021.
The album features cover versions of Christmas songs. It also includes original tracks and duets with artists like Ariana Grande and Chris Stapleton.
It explores a wide range of holiday emotions and experiences. The album was nominated for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album at the Grammy Awards.
Singles like "Christmas Isn't Canceled (Just You)" and "Santa, Can't You Hear Me" highlighted the album's blend of festive and reflective moods.
Key tracks:
- Santa, Can’t You Hear Me
- Christmas Isn't Canceled (Just You)
Rounding out our fan ranking at number ten, When Christmas Comes Around... offers another dose of holiday cheer from Kelly Clarkson.
Fans appreciate its mix of traditional and contemporary holiday sounds. The duets are often highlighted as standout moments on this festive release.
Kelly Clarkson albums: A look at popularity data
While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.
This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens. It often reflects ongoing engagement and discovery by new listeners.
Below is a ranking of Kelly Clarkson's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.
| Popularity Rank | Album Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stronger | 2011 |
| 2 | All I Ever Wanted | 2009 |
| 3 | chemistry | 2023 |
| 4 | Meaning of Life | 2017 |
| 5 | Piece By Piece | 2016 |
| 6 | Wrapped In Red | 2013 |
| 7 | When Christmas Comes Around... | 2021 |
| 8 | Breakaway | 2004 |
| 9 | My December | 2007 |
| 10 | Thankful | 2003 |
Quick FAQs about Kelly Clarkson's albums
Q: What was the musical direction of Kelly Clarkson's album Breakaway?
A: Breakaway marked a sonic departure from her R&B-oriented debut. It is primarily a pop rock record with rock and soul elements, establishing a new sound for her.
Q: How did Breakaway perform commercially?
A: Breakaway was a global commercial success. It sold an estimated 12 million copies worldwide, making it Kelly Clarkson's best-selling album to date.
Ranking Kelly Clarkson's albums is a fascinating exercise. Fan sentiment truly highlights the personal connections listeners have made with her music over the years.
We've seen which albums rise to the top in the hearts of her dedicated fanbase. The popularity data also provides an interesting snapshot of current engagement across her discography.
Ultimately, the "best" Kelly Clarkson album is often the one that speaks most directly to you. Each record captures a different facet of her incredible talent and evolving artistry.
What's your take on Kelly Clarkson's albums ranked? Which release do you consider her masterpiece, and why does it hold that top spot for you?