Introduction
In 2007, the ACM Awards produced one of the most unforgettable duets in country music history. Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire joined voices for “Because of You,” a song Kelly first introduced in 2004. With lyrics about heartache and longing for a different past, the track resonated deeply with listeners long before this special performance.
Kelly’s powerful, soaring voice—equally at home in pop and rock—blended seamlessly with Reba’s warm, storytelling country tone. The contrast between their styles created a magical moment on stage. Having first met in 2002, Reba had always admired Kelly’s talent, making this collaboration even more meaningful for both artists.
On that night, the audience was swept up in the emotion of every note. Their chemistry was palpable, and you could feel the song’s pain, hope, and strength in the air. After the show, their live rendition climbed to number two on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart and earned a Grammy nomination—proof of its extraordinary impact.
Both singers have often praised each other’s artistry. Kelly frequently speaks of the lessons she learned from Reba, while Reba celebrates Kelly’s remarkable growth as a performer. That 2007 duet remains a testament to the power of music and the unforgettable magic that happens when two incredible voices unite.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1: Reba McEntire]
I will not make the same mistakes that you did
I will not let myself cause my heart so much misery
I will not break the way you did, you fell so hard
I’ve learned the hard way to never let it get that far
[Chorus: Reba McEntire & Kelly Clarkson]
Because of you
I never stray too far from the sidewalk
Because of you
I learned to play on the safe side so I don’t get hurt
Because of you
I find it hard to trust not only me, but everyone around me
Because of you, I am afraid
[Verse 2: Kelly Clarkson]
I lose my way
And it’s not too long before you point it out
I cannot cry because I know that’s weakness in your eyes
I’m forced to fake a smile, a laugh everyday of my life
My heart can’t possibly break
When it wasn’t even whole to start with
[Chorus: Reba McEntire & Kelly Clarkson]
Because of you
I never stray too far from the sidewalk
Because of you
I learned to play on the safe side so I don’t get hurt
Because of you
I find it hard to trust not only me, but everyone around me
Because of you, I am afraid
[Verse 3: Reba McEntire & Kelly Clarkson]
I watched you die, I heard you cry every night in your sleep
(I watched you die in your sleep)
I was so young
You should have known better than to lean on me
(I was too young for you to lean on me)
You never thought of anyone else, you just saw your pain
(You never saw me)
And now I cry in the middle of the night
For the same damn thing
[Chorus: Reba McEntire & Kelly Clarkson]
Because of you
I never stray too far from the sidewalk
Because of you
I learned to play on the safe side so I don’t get hurt
Because of you
I find it hard to trust not only me, but everyone around me
Because of you, I am afraid
[Outro: Reba McEntire]
Because of you
Because of you