When Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire Took the Stage at the ACM Awards to Perform Because of You, They Didn’t Just Sing—They Delivered a Raw, Heartbreaking Moment That Left the Audience Frozen in Awe and Earned Them a Grammy Nomination for Best Vocal Country Collaboration.

Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire’s Iconic Performance at the 2007 ACM Awards

At the 2007 ACM Awards, Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire delivered a performance that would go down in history. The two powerhouse singers joined forces for a duet of Clarkson’s hit song *“Because of You”* from her 2004 album *Breakaway*. The song, which explores themes of heartbreak and regret, resonated deeply with audiences due to its raw, emotional lyrics, and the performance only amplified that connection.

Clarkson’s soaring pop-rock vocals paired perfectly with McEntire’s rich, storytelling tone, creating a duet that transcended genres. The collaboration was especially significant as it highlighted McEntire’s admiration for Clarkson, whom she had watched grow as an artist since they first met in 2002.

Their performance at the ACM Awards not only showcased their vocal talents but also solidified their bond as artists. Following the event, their rendition of *“Because of You”* gained widespread acclaim, reaching number two on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. It even earned a Grammy nomination for Best Vocal Country Collaboration.

Both artists have spoken highly of one another. Clarkson expressed deep respect for McEntire, acknowledging how much she has learned from her throughout her career. McEntire, in turn, praised Clarkson’s development as an artist and expressed pride in her growth.

This performance remains a defining moment in both Clarkson and McEntire’s careers, illustrating the power of collaboration and the emotional depth that music can evoke.