The Farr Side: Kelly Clarkson is a proven hit-making machine

I dont claim to be a know-it-all, but I do know that when Kelly Clarkson slam dunks a guy, its gonna be a hit. I know it, you know it and, of course, Mr. Know It All had to see it coming, too. Clarkson is back, and this time shes even Stronger than before.

After several delays and push-backs, Clarksons latest CD, Stronger, is available. And I couldnt be happier. After all, she is my favorite Idol.

Stronger marks Clarksons fifth studio album release in her nine-year career. But it may also be the one that proves her most important, too. Its available in a 13-song set or as a deluxe version with 17 tracks, and it includes her No. 1 country smash Dont You Wanna Stay with Jason Aldean.

Ive been a fan from the get-go, so Ive seen the healthy progression her music has made since her A Moment Like This debut single. She knows the secret to making perfect pop music better than most of her contemporaries. Very few artists have enjoyed the kinds of success she has over the last decade. With hits like Miss Independant, Low, Breakaway, Behind These Hazel Eyes, I Do Not Hookup, Already Gone and numerous others, shes a force to be reckoned with.

As for her slam-dunking well her hits Since U Been Gone, Walk Away, and Never Again pretty much answer that. She rocks when it comes time to roll.

Mr. Know It All is the first single from Stronger. Its a slam dunk, all right. The song cracks the top 10 this week. It follows along the same lines as her other kiss-off anthems, only this one is less in your face unless youre the mister shes referring to. On it, she sings You like to bring me down, dont you? Well, I aint goin down. Love it!

Kellys vocal prowess is stronger than ever, and perhaps most noticeable on What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger). This song is a perfect 10 if any Clarkson song ever was. Its killer guitar riff gets you just like Since U Been Gone did. And remember she took home two Grammys for that one!

Clarksons delivery is spot on here. Aside from maybe Pink, I ! dont bel ieve any other female artist on the scene right now could pack a bigger a punch than Kelly does on this track.

Critics have been quick judge Clarkson, some more critical than others. That fact is she is a hit-making machine with a proven track record.

Contact David T. Farr at farrboy@hotmail.com.