Culture

Kelly Clarkson defends herself after gay contestant on The Voice calls her “small minded”

By Sam Damshenas

29th March 2018

Molly Stevens took offence when the I Don’t Think About You singer compared her vocals to two LGBTQ acts, Melissa Etheridge and the Indigo Girls.

Kelly Clarkson has responded to a former openly gay Voice contestant who called her “small minded” for comparing her to fellow gay artists.

The OG American Idol likened Stevens’ vocals to that of Melissa Etheridge and the Indigo Girls, which she claimed was a “disservice” to LGBTQ acts.

“While I’m extremely honored to be in that category of talent I do believe that comment did us all a disservice and only threw us into a labeling trap,” she said. “It felt small minded to me and exactly what I feel we need to bring attention to the world.”

She added: “I am a singer songwriter who happens to be gay. And so is @melissa_etheridge and @indigogirlsmusic. Glad I can work through this one today on a carousel in Central Park with my mom and niece. But it’s a common stereotype that happens too often. People put us in boxes.”

Kelly – who has been outspoken towards LGBTQ rights in the past – defended her remarks.

“Wow. This really bums me out. I need everyone 2 hear me & hear ALL OF THE WORDS I SAY,” she said. “I compared Molly to Melissa Etheridge, Patty Griffin (a name that was left out conveniently), & the Indigo Girls purely because of the rasp in her voice & that she’s an amazing storyteller.”

Stevens then quickly deleted her comment, and issued an apology to the Move You singer/songwriter.

She said: “I sincerely apologize for any hurt I may have caused with my words. This was not my intention at all. For the people who know me well, you know my heart well too. I strive to live in truth and light. @kelly_clarkson I truly apologize for thinking differently. I look up to you.”