Kelly Clarkson performs 90s hit ‘Flagpole Sitta’ on ‘Kellyoke’ segment

Kelly Clarkson has a unique talent for breathing new life into songs from any genre, and her most recent Kellyoke cover is proof of that. In a surprising twist, Clarkson took on Harvey Danger’s ’90s alt-rock favorite, “Flagpole Sitta,” during an episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show.

Accompanied by her band, My Band Y’all, Clarkson delivered a high-energy performance that embraced the song’s anxious, anti-establishment vibe and sardonic lyrics. Originally released as the debut single from Harvey Danger’s 1997 album “Where Have All the Merrymakers Gone?,” “Flagpole Sitta” quickly became a hit, reaching No. 3 on Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart and securing a lasting place in pop culture history.

The song’s snarky, rebellious lyrics resonated with late ’90s youth culture and cemented its status as an essential track on alternative rock radio stations. Its inclusion in the soundtrack of the 1999 film “American Pie” further solidified its cultural significance, and later, the song enjoyed renewed popularity through television shows like Peep Show.

Kelly Clarkson’s rendition of “Flagpole Sitta” on Kellyoke showcased her ability to fully embody a song’s essence while adding her own twist. With her powerful vocals, Clarkson captured the song’s nervous energy and maintained the raw edge that made the original version so memorable. The performance stayed true to the alt-rock sound, with distorted guitars and propulsive drums driving the arrangement and Clarkson’s delivery exuding a fierce intensity that demonstrated her versatility as an artist.

This isn’t the first time Clarkson has ventured into the realm of alternative rock on Kellyoke. She has previously covered songs by iconic bands like The Killers, Smashing Pumpkins, Kings of Leon, and Foo Fighters, showcasing her eclectic musical tastes and ability to tackle a diverse range of genres.

Clarkson’s cover of “Flagpole Sitta” on The Kelly Clarkson Show was a standout moment that showcased her rock sensibility and undeniable vocal prowess. With each episode of Kellyoke, Clarkson continues to surprise and delight audiences with her dynamic interpretations of beloved songs, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and captivating performer.