The Story Behind Kelly Clarkson's Breakaway Album and Its Iconic Title Track

The year was 2004, and Kelly Clarkson was gearing up to release her second studio album. But before that, she wanted to give her fans a taste of what was to come. Enter 'Breakaway,' the lead single from her sophomore album, which would go on to become an iconic song in her discography.

'Breakaway' is more than just a catchy pop-rock track; it's a personal anthem about chasing your dreams and breaking free from the constraints that hold you back. Clarkson has said that the song was inspired by her own experiences growing up in a small town, feeling like she didn't quite fit in, and wanting to make a name for herself in the music industry.

The song's message resonated with fans and critics alike, and it quickly became a fan favorite. It also received critical acclaim, with many praising Clarkson's powerful vocals and the song's soaring chorus. The accompanying music video, directed by Dave Meyers, was equally well-received, featuring Clarkson playing the role of a young girl from a small town who follows her dreams to become an international star.

But 'Breakaway' wasn't just a one-off success; it went on to top the US Adult Contemporary chart for 21 weeks, a record that still stands today. It also peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it Clarkson's third top-ten single in the United States.

The song's success wasn't limited to the US, either. It reached the top 20 in multiple European countries and the top 10 in Australia, Belgium, Hungary, and the Netherlands. The album of the same name was also a commercial success, debuting at number three on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually being certified platinum.

Despite its success, 'Breakaway' almost didn't make it onto Clarkson's second album. According to reports, the song was originally intended for Avril Lavigne's debut studio album, but was ultimately passed back to Clarkson when she decided not to include it on her own album. Instead, Clarkson recorded the song as a single for The Princess Diaries 2 soundtrack, where it became a hit.

In May 2006, 'Breakaway' was re-released as the fifth and final single from the album of the same name. It's clear that this song has had a lasting impact on Clarkson's career and legacy, cementing her status as one of the most talented vocalists in the industry.

To this day, 'Breakaway' remains an iconic anthem about chasing your dreams and never giving up. Its message continues to resonate with fans around the world, making it one of Kelly Clarkson's most beloved songs of all time.

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