Just Hear Me Out: Kelly Clarkson’s ‘Breakaway’ Is One Of The Best ’00s Pop Albums

The ’00s was an incredible time for music.

No, but seriously. An era where Beyoncé, Britney, Christina, Avril, and ’00s emo existed harmoniously? Name a better decade.

Pop music was f*cking strong in the ’00s, there’s no doubt about it and female solo singers were taking the lead. But in amongst the beautiful world of ‘Toxic’, ‘Sk8er Boi’ and ‘Dirrty’ there was a standout star with a standout album. And she does not get the true recognition she deserves.

I am, of course, talking about Kelly Clarkson’s 2004 album Breakaway.

After winning American Idol in 2002, Kelly released her debut album filled with soulful songs about love. But it was her darker, second album filled with attitude and impeccable vocals that was the true masterpiece.

Here’s why Breakaway by Kelly Clarkson was one of the most iconic pop albums of the ’00s.

1. There is truly not one bad song on it

From the mellow opening of ‘Breakaway’ to the gritty ‘Addicted’ and the live version of ‘Beautiful Disaster’ it’s all killer and no filler.

2. It was angsty AF

Kelly led us in softly with title track ‘Breakaway’ but then BAM, she made a huge power play with songs like ‘Behind These Hazel Eyes’, ‘Addicted’ and ‘Hear Me’. You thought Avril was the angsty queen of the ’00s? Think again, sweetie!

3. But it had real emotion also

Sorry, but if you haven’t cried in the dark to ‘Because of You’ numerous times from 2004-2019, are you even living a proper life? Don’t ask me any questions during this time, thanks.

4. In between the darkness, there were still some classic pop bangers

Who hasn’t screamed ‘Since U Been Gone’ drunkenly at karaoke? Who hasn’t done a shower rendition of ‘Walk Away’ at the top of their lungs? And then throw in some ‘You Found Me’ to make you believe in the power of love again… ugh, she really DID that.

5. Kelly has the fucking range

“No I doooon’t cry, on the outside, ANYMOOOOOOOORE.” You know the note I’m talking about. None of us mere mortals could ever reach it.

6. ‘Since U Been Gone’ is still one of the best breakup anthems to date

Once again, who hasn’t drunkenly screamed ‘Since U Been Gone’ with a certain ex in mind? Don’t lie to me and pretend it’s just me. I know you’ve done it too. Kelly essentially dragged all our ex-partners through the power of song and, well, we simply have to stan.