Kelly Clarkson wins CMT Awards with sexy new shape, sultry cover of 'American Woman'

Everyone knows Kelly Clarkson can belt out a tune and then some. When she took the stage at Nashville’s 2018 CMT Music Awards on Wednesday night, she proved she can also steal an entire telecast with just a few minutes on camera.

“This artist is the definition of an American woman: She’s strong, she’s confident, and man she can sing,” presenter Bobby Bones said when it was time for Clarkson to perform her soul-tinged, take-no-prisoners version of the Guess Who 1969 classic, “American Woman,” backed by a gospel choir.

One thing Bones didn’t mention: Clarkson was also looking as fantastic as she sounded. Clad in a body-hugging short black dress and heels, the currently reigning Voice coach champion was undeniably more svelte than fans have seen her in quite some time.

Kelly Clarkson performs at the 2018 CMT Music Awards at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)
Kelly Clarkson performs at the 2018 CMT Music Awards at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)

Clarkson has long been a champion for body positivity — no matter what size — making her current fit appearance even more of a inspiration for those who have followed her journey over the years.

The American Idol alum’s cover tune will serve as the theme song for the Paramount Network’s upcoming series of the same name, which stars Alicia Silverstone, Mena Suvari, and Jennifer Bartels, and debuts June 7. The official music video, which debuted earlier Wednesday, incorporates footage from the series.

Clarkson has been busy of late. In addition to her performance at the CMT Awards, she hosted the 2018 Billboard Music Awards last month and ushered in the Voice‘s youngest winner ever, Brynn Cartelli, in her first season as a coach on the hit reality show.

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