First Listen: Kelly Clarkson’s “Catch My Breath”

In last week’s Roundup, we reported on the big news that Kelly Clarkson is set to release a new single, called “Catch My Breath,” to coincide with the release of her first greatest hits album. Ryan Seacrest debuted that song on his radio show this morning, and according to his website, “It is the first of three new singles from her new album,” so fans can expect at least three original songs alongside her previous hits. Take a listen to the new single below:

Do you like the new song? With such lyrics as, “Now that you know, this is my life I won’t be told what’s supposed to be right / Catch my breath, no one can hold be back, I ain’t got time for that / Catch my breath, Won’t let em get me down, It’s all so simple now,” Kelly provides a more uplifting tune that reflects on what’s happened in her career so far and how she can use that to continue moving forward.

“Catch My Breath” will be available to download on October 16, with Greatest Hits — Chapter 1 set to hit stores November 19.

Idols Nominated for AMAs and ACAs

Everything’s kicking into high gear with the American Music Awards and the American Country Awards, as both have now announced their 2012 nominations. And there are Idols across the board being represented.

First, let’s start with the AMAs. Kelly Clarkson has been nominated for Favorite Female Artist: Pop/Rock and Favorite Artist: Adult Contemporary, while Carrie Underwood is listed under Favorite Female Artist: Country and Favorite Album: Country (for Blown Away). (New judge Nicki Minaj has four nominations.) You can start voting now for who you want to win in each category. The 2012 American Music Awards will air Sunday, November 18, from 8-11pm on ABC.

Now moving over to the ACAs: Carrie Underwood is up for Female Artist, Single of the Year: Female (for “Good Girl”), Single of the Year: Vocal Collaboration (for her duet with Brad Paisley on “Remind Me”) and Music Video of the Year: Female (“Good Girl”). Lauren Alaina received a nomination for New Artist, and Casey James even scored one as well for Music Video of the Year: New Artist (“Let’s Don’t Call It a Night”). (Meanwhile, new Idol judge Keith Urban scored two nominations.) Like the AMAs, winners will also be determined by public voting. The 2012 American Country Awards is set to air Monday, December 10, from 8-10pm on FOX.

Kellie Pickler Signs with Black River Entertainment

There has been a lot of news in the past several weeks and months of some Idols being dropped by their label and others signing new record deals. This week, it’s the latter, as Kellie Pickler has signed with Black River Entertainment. Back in July, her contract with Sony Music Nashville ended and was not renewed.

In a press release, CEO Gordon Kerr said, “What’s not to love about Kellie? She’s real, she adores her fans, she’s rooted in and committed to country music and she’s genuine. How can you ask for more than that?” A&R VP Doug Johnson continued the sentiment by saying, “Kellie Pickler — great singer, captivating performer, the heart and soul of what makes our format incredible and authentic. Deep roots plus relevance equals a true artist. Anyone who loves country music deserves to turn on their radio and hear Kellie Pickler. I am honored to have the opportunity to help share her music with the world.”

What made Kellie sign with this label in particular? “In looking for a label partner, I was really drawn to the Black River family because they hold similar values that I do,” she says. “From our initial meeting, it was clear to me how much the entire team respects the artists’ musical vision, and I’m really looking forward to getting back into the studio to record and release new music to country radio.” I’m sure her fans are looking forward to her putting out new music as well.

Idol Tweets

In our latest batch of tweets (and one Facebook post), three former contestants provide updates on how their new albums are going, and another is recording a Christmas song.

Ayla Brown: “I will be putting together the album artwork today for the ‘Heroes and Hometowns’ CD. I am REALLY looking forward to sharing this music with you guys.”

Jordin Sparks: “19 possible amazing tracks in my pocket 4 a new album…excited! Headed back into the studio this week 4 more! You ready for new music??”

James Durbin: “We’re recording a Christmas Song Today!!! And well [sic] be filming today too!!! So when that day comes, you get to experience the fun we had!!”

Phillip Phillips: “Recording vocals to maybe my favorite song on the album.”

(Image courtesy of WENN)

Jeff Dodge

Staff Writer, BuddyTV

Jeff Dodge, a graduate of Western Washington University, has been a TV news editor for many years and has had the chance to interview multiple reality show stars, including Randy Jackson, Nick Cannon, Heidi Klum, Mel B and John Cena.