There are over 300 known recorded versions of the song “Always On My Mind.” In 1970 B.J. Thomas became the first artist to record the song, but it wasn’t until 1972 that Gwen McCrae became the first artist to release it.
Since then, “Always On My Mind” has been performed by the likes of Brenda Lee, Elvis Presley, and Pet Shop Boys.
Another famous recording came from Willie Nelson in 1982. His version of the song went on to earn three Grammy Awards, including a Best Male Country Vocal Performance trophy.
Since “Always On My Mind” is so iconic, it is often covered during singing competition shows. It was performed on The Voice two seasons in a row, and both times it was sung by members of Team Kelly.
First, Jake Hoot and Steve Knill covered “Always On My Mind” during the Season 17 battle round. Hoot was named the winner of the battle, and eventually went on to win the season.
Then, Samantha Howell sang “Always On My Mind” during the Season 18. She was one of four contestants who participated in the four-way knockout, but lost to Cedrice of Team Blake.
It seems Clarkson is a fan of “Always On My Mind.” On top of coaching her Voice contestants to cover the song, she has performed her own rendition!
Clarkson delivered a cover of the song for the famed “Kellyoke” segment of her talk show. She was unable to sing with her band in person when she recorded her performance, but she didn’t let that stop her.
She kept the style of her performance pretty true to the arrangements of artists such as Nelson and Presley. So if you like their versions of the song, you’re sure to enjoy Clarkson’s as well.
Watch Clarkson give “Always On My Mind” the “Kellyoke” treatment by checking out the video below.