At the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors, Kelly Clarkson took center stage to deliver a powerhouse performance of Reba McEntire’s iconic hit, “Fancy,” and the result was nothing short of electrifying. As she launched into the opening notes, the audience was captivated by her fierce, commanding presence. With every line, Kelly Clarkson made the song her own, infusing it with her unique style while honoring the legacy of Reba McEntire.

Kelly Clarkson Sings “Fancy” In Kennedy Center Tribute To Reba McEntire

When it came time for the Kennedy Center Honors to name its 2018 batch of honorees, Reba McEntire served as country music’s representative. And Kelly Clarkson stepped up to pay tribute to her with a performance of “Fancy.”

According to the Kennedy Center Honors’ website, this prestigious honor is bestowed upon”exceptional artists who have made enduring and indelible marks on our culture.” Anyone who followed McEntire’s career knows she fits that definition like a glove.

McEntire was recognized alongside the other 2018 honorees (including Hamilton co-creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, Cher, and several others) during a ceremony on December 2. Other artists took to the stage to celebrate the honorees by performing covers of their famous works.

Some of the most meaningful country covers have emerged from past Kennedy Center Honors ceremonies.

For example, when Dolly Parton was recognized at the 2006 ceremony her own duet partner Kenny Rogers honored her with “Islands in the Stream.” He surprised Parton by walking onstage to join Carrie Underwood on the song.

Parton enjoyed the performance so much, she actually jumped out of her seat.

Islands in the stream Carrie Underwood-Kenny Rogers

Plenty of people gave a standing ovation following one powerhouse performance in McEntire’s honor at the 2018 ceremony. That performance was delivered by none other than Kelly Clarkson, who shares a special connection with McEntire.

Are Reba McEntire & Kelly Clarkson Related?

In addition to being good friends and frequent collaborators, Clarkson and McEntire share family connections.

In 2013, Clarkson married Brandon Blackstock, the son of McEntire’s then-husband Narvel Blackstock. Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock have since split as well. But Clarkson and McEntire remain close.

Kelly Clarkson sang "Fancy" to honor her longtime friend Reba McEntire in 2018. The two stars go way back. — *Ethan Miller / Staff / Getty Images*

Because of their connection, the tears were already flowing between the two singers before Clarkson started her performance. She spoke of how McEntire made a lasting impact on her life, not just as an artist, but as a member of her family.

With the emotions already running high, McEntire failed to hold back her tears as Clarkson started singing “Fancy,” one of McEntire’s most iconic songs.

Watch The Kennedy Center Honors Performance Of “Fancy” In The Video Below

Clarkson’s cover left many audience members visibly impressed. As the camera panned over the crowd, people seemed stunned. Some even mouthed the word “wow” whenever Clarkson crushed a powerful note.

But there’s no denying that McEntire was most impressed with Clarkson’s cover. She remained teary-eyed almost the entire time. She quickly gave her a standing ovation at the end of her performance.

Now you can catch part of Kelly Clarkson’s outstanding rendition of “Fancy” by tuning in to the clip below. Then, enjoy a video of her singing the same song with McEntire some years ago!