Kelly Clarkson’s Haunting Tribute to Trisha Yearwood Leaves Matthew McConaughey—and All of Us—Speechless

Kelly Clarkson has earned her title as the queen of cover songs, and her March 2021 rendition of Trisha Yearwood’s “Walkaway Joe” on The Kelly Clarkson Show proves exactly why. With raw emotion and powerhouse vocals, Clarkson reimagined the 1992 country ballad into a chillingly beautiful version that mesmerized everyone watching—both in the studio and at home.

An Iconic Kellyoke Moment

Clarkson’s Kellyoke series has become a fan favorite, showcasing her ability to breathe new life into beloved tracks. But her cover of “Walkaway Joe” stands out as one of the most emotional and captivating to date. The song tells the story of a young woman’s heartbreak after falling for a charming stranger who quickly vanishes.

Bathed in soft blue lighting and backed by her talented band Y’all, Clarkson delivered a performance that honored the original while adding her own unique emotional depth. From her soaring vocals to those crisp, crystal-clear high notes, every moment painted a picture of sorrow, longing, and lost love.

A Touching Nod to Matthew McConaughey

What made the performance even more special was the presence of actor Matthew McConaughey—who played the role of “Joe” in the original 1992 music video. Long before his breakout role in Dazed and Confused, McConaughey brought the heartbreak character to life on screen.

Clarkson honored that connection with a sweet dedication, saying:
“This Ms. Trisha Yearwood classic goes out to Matthew McConaughey!”

Here’s the original 1992 music video for Trisha Yearwood’s “Walkaway Joe”—featuring a very young Matthew McConaughey in his first acting role:

Reviving a Classic with Heart and Soul

Kelly Clarkson’s rendition of “Walkaway Joe” is a stunning example of her talent for breathing new life into iconic songs. With every note, she not only showcases her incredible voice but also channels the deep emotion at the heart of the song—reminding us why she’s one of today’s most captivating performers.

Through her beloved Kellyoke segment, Clarkson continues to impress. Time and time again, she proves there’s no song she can’t make her own—especially when it comes to emotional ballads like this one.