Kelly Clarkson Stuns Singing in Spanish with Gloria Estefan on NBC Special
Kelly Clarkson just proved—again—that there’s nothing her powerhouse voice can’t handle, even when it comes to singing in another language.
The original American Idol winner teamed up with Cuban music icon Gloria Estefan for a heartfelt performance of Estefan’s 1993 classic “Mi Tierra,” sung entirely in Spanish. The duet was featured on the latest episode of NBC’s limited series Songs & Stories with Kelly Clarkson, which aired Monday, Aug. 26.
Before the performance, Clarkson admitted she was a little nervous about the challenge. “I love all of your songs, but this is my favorite. This is the one I’m most excited to do today. I hope I don’t screw up the Spanish,” she told Estefan.
Estefan, who recorded the Grammy-winning Mi Tierra album with what she called “so many amazing musicians,” encouraged Clarkson before they jumped in.
With her signature grit and passion, Clarkson delivered the Latin ballad alongside Estefan, earning a hug and glowing praise from the legend herself.
“It wasn’t perfect but I love that song so much,” Clarkson said with a laugh once the song wrapped.
“You are hard on yourself!” Estefan replied, before joking, “You could be Cuban!”
The special moment had fans buzzing on social media, with many praising Clarkson’s fearless approach to performing in Spanish and applauding Estefan for warmly embracing her effort.
The episode is part of Clarkson’s four-part NBC series, where she invites guest stars to sing and share the personal stories behind their biggest hits. “Every song’s got a story, and this special gives us a chance to hear what’s behind the music straight from the artists who lived it,” Clarkson said in a press release.
Upcoming episodes will feature rising soul star Teddy Swims and Grammy winner Lizzo. The show is also available to stream on Peacock for fans who missed the live airing.
Whether it’s pop, country, rock, or Latin, Clarkson continues to show fans she’s a true vocal chameleon—and Estefan’s reaction proves her Spanish singing skills deserve an ¡Olé! of their own.
