The glittering Minnesota Vikings player and the Grammy-winning vocalist entertained with their comedic performance of her famous tune, aimed at the retired football superstar.
Kelly Clarkson was the shining star at the NFL Honors, where she made her debut as the first female host. The talented singer, who has won both Emmy and Grammy awards, took everyone by surprise by breaking into song during the ceremony, dressed in her Dallas Cowboys attire.
Kirk Cousins, also known as “Kirko Chains,” made an impressive entrance to the stage at the Phoenix Symphony Hall, decked out in sparkling jewelry. The Vikings quarterback earned his nickname after a viral celebration on a plane during Week 9.
“I apologize, Kelly,” Cousins said, taking the stage. “I just wanted to perform a quick tribute song for Tom Brady, on behalf of all the other quarterbacks in the league. May I?” he asked with a smile.
.@KirkCousins8 sang with @kellyclarkson…
And you gotta wait for @DerwinJames‘ reaction at the end. 😂🎤 #NFLHonors pic.twitter.com/MuEmj7w9aa
— NFL (@NFL) February 10, 2023
“Sure thing, let’s light up the stage like a diamond,” Clarkson replied, graciously handing the microphone over to Cousins.
The complete lyrics of the song ‘Since You’ve Been Gone’ dedicated to Tom Brady.
KIRK COUSINS:
Tom’s won seven times, went to ten.
He’s on some beach so maybe Kirk could win.
Yeah, yeah, since he’s been gone.
[Kelly Clarkson speaks] First of all, you can really sing. What? Ok. That doesn’t really sound like a tribute. It just sounds like you’re glad he’s gone because it gives you and the other teams a better shot. And I am totally for this. Brady’s retirement is good for him, and great for us.
[Cousins speaks: Come on Kelly, everyone wants to hear you sing. Not me.]
KELLY CLARKSON:
Cause now that he’s gone.
Teams have hope for the first time.
Brady’s moving on, yeah yeah.
For the GOAT, that’s a wrap.
Now he just posts thirst traps.Now that he’s gone.
Did I do it right? @Edelman11 @RobGronkowski @bradybrand 😬😬 https://t.co/9bN6N3WbSN pic.twitter.com/3lSgRXKc0F
— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) February 6, 2023
“Let’s hear it for Kelly Clarkson!” Cousins exclaimed, energizing the crowd.
In response, Kelly Clarkson added, “And a round of applause for Kirk Cousins, who shows off his surprising vocal skills.”