New Kelly Clarkson music always puts a smile on my face. While the original American Idol was forced to cancel her brilliant Piece By Piece Tour following medical complications with her vocals chords, it does not mean we've heard the last of the "Since U Been Gone" songstress in 2015. Clarkson takes on a supporting role for "Second Hand Heart", the debut folk-pop single from Ben Haenow, series eleven winner of The X Factor UK.
With a straightforward pop progression and overall tone, supported by country-folk undertones, Haenow's insanely catchy "Second Hand Heart" moves him far away from the rock-leaning vocal inspirations that he showcased on the reality competition show he went on to dominate. With Clarkson by his side, with her trademark powerhouse vocals, the two showcase immense musical chemistry on the sweet, loving, radio-ready single.
As the first few notes of the track come through the speakers, a sense of Clarkson's own "People Like Us" surrounds the listener, only to take on a life of its own soon after. Haenow knows he's not the most perfect person in the world, he expresses all his flaws to a potential suitor, but knows the love he has to give is more than enough to prove his worth. "I might think too much, drink too much, stay out too late, I know I'm just a fool, but I swear I can change, I can't steal you the stars, but I can give you this second hand heart," he belts.
"Second Hand Heart" is an explosion of relatable, sentimental lyrical content and infectious, upbeat production, carried by two strong vocal performances. Haenow gave a One Republic-like delivery on his previous effort "Something I Need", but thankfully he is growing into his own type of artist. Clarkson does a great job at giving the song an extra push, but allows The X Factor winner to remain in the spotlight... until the end, Kelly's power is difficulty to fully contain.
There's absolutely no doubt that the new "Second Hand Heart" will quickly climb the UK charts, however, the folky duet could do some damage in the U.S. as well. Clarkson is a pop radio staple and with her stamp of approval on Haenow's charming personality and own vocal prowess, their collaboration could be a future hit. The premise is simple and adorable, creating an experience that will be hard to escape after the first listen.
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