When Kelly Clarkson stepped onto the Grand Ole Opry stage for NBC’s Christmas at the Opry special, the atmosphere in the historic venue shifted. The audience, filled with country music fans and holiday enthusiasts, straightened in their seats. Clarkson, dressed in an elegant off-the-shoulder black gown with a voluminous tulle skirt, commanded attention from the moment she appeared. As she launched into her 2013 holiday hit “Underneath the Tree,” her voice filled the room with a warm, powerful glow that captivated everyone present. By the chorus, the crowd was on its feet—singing along, laughing, wiping away tears, and embracing loved ones. It was more than a performance; it evoked the true spirit of Christmas, making the season feel meaningful again.

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The special, hosted by Wynonna Judd and aired on NBC in December 2023, featured a lineup of country stars including Trace Adkins, Brenda Lee, Chris Janson, and Lauren Alaina. Filmed in October 2023 at the Grand Ole Opry House, it brought holiday classics and contemporary hits to life in front of a live audience. Clarkson’s rendition of “Underneath the Tree” stood out as a highlight, earning praise from viewers and critics alike. Fans called her “Mother Christmas” for the way she infused the song with energy and emotion, turning a modern holiday anthem into a communal celebration.

“Underneath the Tree,” from Clarkson’s acclaimed album Wrapped in Red, has become a staple of contemporary Christmas music since its release. Co-written by Clarkson and Greg Kurstin, the upbeat track captures the excitement of gift-giving and love during the holidays with its infectious melody and Phil Spector-inspired “Wall of Sound” production. Clarkson has performed it numerous times over the years, including on her talk show and at major events, but her Opry appearance resonated deeply due to the venue’s legendary status and the festive context.

The Grand Ole Opry House, with its iconic circle of wood from the original Ryman Auditorium stage, holds a special place in music history. Performers often describe stepping into that circle as a career-defining moment. For Clarkson, a pop powerhouse who won the inaugural season of American Idol in 2002, appearing at the Opry bridged her crossover appeal with country’s roots. She also joined Judd for a duet of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” blending their powerhouse vocals in a joyful opener that set the tone for the evening.

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Clarkson’s holiday music career began with Wrapped in Red, her sixth studio album and first Christmas release. Debuting at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, it featured originals like “Underneath the Tree” alongside classics such as “Blue Christmas” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” The album went platinum and established Clarkson as a holiday favorite, with “Underneath the Tree” becoming one of the best-selling digital Christmas singles by a female artist.

Her second holiday album, When Christmas Comes Around… in 2021, continued the tradition with collaborations and fresh takes on standards. Clarkson’s voice—known for its range, power, and emotional delivery—lends itself perfectly to seasonal songs, conveying warmth and vulnerability that connect with listeners.

The Opry performance showcased Clarkson’s versatility. In a black gown that evoked elegance and festivity, she moved effortlessly across the stage, engaging the audience with smiles and energy. Viewers noted how her belting notes and ad-libs made the song feel fresh, while the live band added a country flair with twangy guitars and upbeat rhythms. The crowd’s reaction—standing ovations, sing-alongs—reflected the song’s ability to unite people in celebration.

Fans on social media raved about the moment. Posts described tears of joy and a renewed sense of holiday spirit. One viewer shared, “Kelly Clarkson singing ‘Underneath the Tree’ at the Opry made Christmas feel real again.” The performance clip from NBC garnered millions of views on YouTube, with comments praising her vocal control and stage presence.

Clarkson’s connection to holiday music runs deep. She has hosted Christmas specials, performed at tree lightings, and incorporated festive songs into her talk show segments. Her genuine enthusiasm for the season shines through, making her renditions feel authentic and uplifting.

The Christmas at the Opry special highlighted country’s role in holiday traditions. With performances of classics like Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and duets that brought generations together, it celebrated music’s power to evoke nostalgia and joy. Clarkson’s contribution fit seamlessly, proving her status as a crossover artist respected in Nashville.

Years later, the performance endures as a highlight of modern holiday television. Clips continue to circulate each December, reminding viewers of that magical night when Clarkson brought the Opry audience to their feet and hearts to full.

As holiday seasons come and go, moments like Clarkson’s Opry set remind us why music matters—especially at Christmas. It wasn’t just a song; it was a shared experience of joy, connection, and wonder.