Kelly Clarkson’s Rendition of “The Dance” Brings Garth Brooks to Tears
Garth Brooks, the best-selling solo musician in American history, has created timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences. His hit “Friends in Low Places” is known to elevate spirits, while his emotional ballads, like “The Dance,” leave a lasting impact.
“The Dance” stands out as one of Garth Brooks’ most iconic songs, touching hearts worldwide.
Garth Brooks was honored at the 43rd Annual Kennedy Center Honors, an event recognizing performers who have made significant contributions to American culture through the performing arts. Garth’s influence has been monumental since his debut album in 1989, revolutionizing not just country music, but the music industry as a whole.
To honor this music legend, the event called on Kelly Clarkson to perform. The Kennedy Center Honors highlights artists from all disciplines of performing arts who have shaped American society, a testament to Garth Brooks’ profound impact.
“The Dance,” the last single from Brooks’ debut album, has always been a defining song in his career. Garth explained, “I believe ‘The Dance’ is a song about love gone bad for a lot of people, which, you know, it is. But it’s always struck me as a song about life. Or maybe the loss of those who, like John F. Kennedy or Martin Luther King, made the ultimate cost for a cause in which they believed. John Wayne’s or Keith Whitley’s And if they could return, I’m sure they’d tell us what the lyrics of ‘The Dance’ mean.”
Kelly Clarkson, who has also been deeply moved by “The Dance,” revealed in 2020 how the song helped her cope with her divorce.
Watch the full dramatic performance below and see who gets emotional first: you or Garth.
