Clay on Kelly Clarkson in ELLE

Clay had some nice things to say about his former Independent Tour touring buddy Kelly Clarkson in a new ELLE article (Clay is mentioned on page 2) about Clarkson and her post-American Idol success.

"She is the most popular pop vocalist in the country," echoes Clay Aiken, a friend and former touring partner. "And to be that girl and not mind being photographed with your hair messed up—that is something. Can you name any other singer who would dare do that? I mean, please."

"Her new album is a real departure. It's a risk," Aiken says. "Kelly is one of those people who really knows who she is. For better or worse, she is her own woman."