Courtesy Starstruck EntertainmentKelly Clarkson proved an affable, informal master of ceremonies Friday night at her second Miracle on Broadway benefit at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. Though she had plenty of special guests, Kelly’s array of glittering holiday outfits, her sense of humor and her vocal prowess were often some of the biggest highlights.
In addition to keeping the show running and performing her own songs, Kelly frequently remained onstage trading lines and providing background vocals for the stars who’d come to help her out. After offering her take on “Jingle Bell Rock,” Reba McEntire debuted her new version of the gospel classic “Softly and Tenderly” with Kelly on guest vocals.
Even though he’d announced earlier in the week he wouldn’t be able to make it because he was sick, Reba’s Vegas-residency-partner Ronnie Dunn made a surprise appearance to sing “I”ll Be Home for Christmas.”
Clad in shimmering emerald green to match Kelly’s red sparkles, an excited Kelsea Ballerini performed her Christmas single, “My Favorite Things,” with her longtime-idol adding harmonies. Nashville’s Charles Esten delivered a Springsteen-inspired take on “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” with Hunter Hayes and Steve Wariner rounding out the lineup.
We should find out in the coming days exactly how much money Kelly’s second Music City benefit was able to raise. The proceeds will be divided between four nonprofits: Abe’s Garden, which is an Alzheimers-related charity, Second Harvest Food Bank, the Nashville Public Library, and the W.O. Smith Music School.
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