Album: Meaning of Life

Introduction
"Meaning of Life" is the eighth studio album launched by American singer Kelly Clarkson in 2017. This album marks Clarkson's debut on Atlantic Records, after completing her recording contract with RCA Records. With "Meaning of Life", Clarkson shifts her musical instructions, welcoming a more soulful, R&B affected sound, showcasing her powerful vocals and emotional variety. The album includes cooperations with popular songwriters and manufacturers, such as Greg Kurstin, Jesse Shatkin, and The Monarch.

The album was favored by both fans and critics alike for its authentic, renewing sound and Clarkson's singing performance. It debuted at second on the US Billboard 200 chart and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album. "Meaning of Life" features hit singles such as "Love So Soft" and "I Don't Think About You".

Style and Lyrics
The overarching theme of "Meaning of Life" is the expedition of love, empowerment, and self-discovery. This album showcases a newfound maturity in Clarkson's songwriting, reviewing her individual experiences, development, and life lessons. The lyrics tackle themes of finding strength in vulnerability, valuing self-regard, and embracing the complexities of relationships.

For example, the title track "Meaning of Life" deals with the concept of discovering one's purpose and true happiness. The emotional ballad "I Don't Think About You" is about proceeding from a hazardous relationship, while "Heat" provides the idea of resolving the struggles in a relationship to reach personal growth. Throughout the record, Clarkson advises listeners to get in touch with their own feelings and comprehend the importance of self-love.

Musical Style and Influences
"Meaning of Life" marks a departure from the pop-rock noise that controlled the majority of Clarkson's previous discography. With this record, she delves deep into her love for soul, gospel, and R&B music, inspired by her early influences such as Aretha Franklin, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston.

The album includes numerous musical aspects, such as horns, gospel choirs, and sultry ballads that showcase her powerhouse vocals. The production of the tracks maintains a perfect balance in between modern pop sensibilities and classic soulfulness, enabling the vocalist to shine.

The album's lead single, "Love So Soft", is an upbeat track with memorable hooks and a soulful flair, displaying a strong influence of 60s and 70s R&B music. Other standout tracks, such as "Whole Lotta Woman" and "Move You", display a mix of classic soul, gospel, blues, and funk, while still maintaining Clarkson's signature pop-rock essence.

Reception and Legacy
"Meaning of Life" was met mainly positive evaluations from music critics, applauding Clarkson's vocal efficiency, the album's emotional instructions, and its empowering styles. It debuted at second on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling over 79,000 units within its very first week, which re-affirms her position as a popular pop artist.

The album has actually gotten award season acknowledgment, with Kelly Clarkson getting a Grammy election for Best Pop Vocal Album. In addition, "Love So Soft" made two elections for Best Pop Solo Performance and Best Music Video at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards.

In conclusion, Kelly Clarkson's "Meaning of Life" represents an essential point in her career, showcasing her development as an artist and accepting her musical roots. Checking out styles of love, empowerment, and self-discovery through an emotional noise, this album has received extensive appreciation from fans and critics alike, highlighting Clarkson's effective voice and genuine artistry.