Pop superstar Kelly Clarkson was probably very surprised to find herself so heavily featured in Clive Davis‘ new memoir about his life titled, “The Soundtrack of My Life”. In the juicy read, the record industry icon goes into messy detail about Clarkson’s alleged bratty attitude when he informed her he didn’t believe any material she co-wrote was a No. 1 hit. He also recalls insisting the Idol winner record “Since U Been Gone” for her album to which she “burst into hysterical sobbing”—the record since went on to become an international smash.
See Kelly’s no holds barred rebuttal after the jump and sound-off below!
So I just heard Clive Davis is releasing a memoir and spreading false information about me and my music. I refuse to be bullied and I just have to clear up his memory lapses and misinformation for myself and for my fans. It feels like a violation. Growing up is awesome because you learn you don’t have to cower to anyone – even Clive Davis.
First, he says I burst into “hysterical sobbing” in his office when he demanded Since You Been Gone be on my album. Not true at all. His stories and songs are mixed up. I did want more guitars added to the original demo and Clive did not. Max, Luke and I still fought for the bigger sound and we prevailed and I couldn’t be more proud of the life of that song. I resent him dampening that song in any way.
But, yes, I did cry in his office once. I cried after I played him a song I had written about my life called “Because Of You.” I cried because he hated it and told me verbatim that I was a “sh*tty writer who should be grateful for the gifts that he bestows upon me.” He continued on about how the song didn’t rhyme and how I should just shut up and sing. This was devastating coming from a man who I, as a young girl, considered a musical hero and was so honored to work with.
But I continued to fight for the song and the label relented. And it became a worldwide hit. He didn’t include that in the book.”
And there you have it! You have to love Kelly for having the gumption to publicly tell her truth and not bite her tongue. On the other and, Clive still has a commanding influence on the music industry and I hope her comments won’t come back to bite her in the end. As with most stories, there are three sides, and this one is certainly no different. We have his, hers and the truth, the question is…which side do you believe?
Your thoughts?
