The current crop of “American Idol” contestants kicked off the weekend with a concert in Glendale, but our time and money are better invested on a performer from the days when A.I. actually accomplished something: Kelly Clarkson.
The series’ first winner and, according to Billboard.com, still its biggest star, Clarkson appears Wednesday, Aug. 1 at US Airways Center.
With accolades that have made her a genuine music talent in her own right — and not simply someone who once won a reality TV show — Clarkson has come a long way in the 10 years since America first met her. To her credit: five studio albums, ten Top 10 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, two Grammy Awards, four American Music Awards, three MTV Video Music Awards, two Academy of Country Music Awards, one Country Music Association Award and 12 Billboard Music Awards.
Clarkson’s most recent album, “Stronger,” produced the hits “Mr. Know It All” and “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You). “Miss Independent” (2003) boasts the largest tallies of radio spins, single sales and YouTube views of any former “Idol,” according to Billboard.
Wednesday’s concert is a double bill; Denver-based foursome The Fray, of “Over My Head (Cable Car)” and “How to Save a Life,” co-headlines the show. Carolina Liar also plays.
DETAILS >> 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 1. US Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. $29.75-$69.75. (602) 379-7800 or www.usairwayscenter.com.
Contact writer: (480) 898-6818 or azajac@evtrib.com
