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My December (by Kelly Clarkson, Pop)

common sense media says

Idol gets a bit edgier and more mature.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that Kelly Clarkson's third album is significantly sassier than her previous two. Although there's really nothing that offensive, there's a lot more attitude and angst ("I hope the ring you gave to her/turns her finger green") coming from "Miss Independence," thanks to a conflict with her record label as well as some boy trouble.

Positive messages: Honest, passionate, emotional responses to betrayal and breakup (anger, depression, desperation), as well as some natural desire to enact revenge. The album itself -- and the fact that it was released the way Clarkson intended -- is testament to her ability to stick up for what she believes in and stand up for herself. "Never Again," however, does have a spiteful tone, with Clarkson admitting "I would never wish bad things, but I don't wish you well."
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: One angry reference to sex ("I hope when you're in bed with her, you think of me").
Language: Occasional spattering of words that some may find offensive (damn, hell, crap, sucks).
Consumerism: Obvious ties to American Idol.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: In a bonus track that isn't even listed on the album, several references to "Chivas," which is presumably the whiskey. Song entitled "Sober" compares a relationship to addiction.
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More on My December

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about how Clarkson fought hard to maintain creative control of this album instead of doing what the label dictated. When is it okay to try to go against what is expected? When is it not? Families can also discuss the various emotions people experience while recovering from a broken relationship, whether it's a boyfriend/girlfriend or a business partnership. What does wanting revenge get you?

What's the story?

What's the story?
MY DECEMBER is Kelly Clarkson's third album since winning votes and hearts on American Idol, and she makes it painfully clear that she's all grown up. Gone is that plucky pop princess and in her place is a woman scorned -- by both a boy and a record label. After tremendous critical and financial success, Clarkson took some chances with My December by making a much more personal record -- and publicly fighting her label to release it. The result is an album that may help soothe the souls of teens suffering through their own relationship woes. Clarkson co-wrote every song, and she willingly opens herself up to let listeners look inside. There's nothing overtly offensive here, but there's definitely some soul-searching, sadness, and serious rage.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Her voice -- clearly the most powerful instrument on the album -- is as passionate as ever. What's different, however, is that Clarkson is belting out her own emotions rather than singing songs composed by someone else. Musically the melodies are bolder and brasher, whether it's a rocker like "Never Again" or a ballad like "Sober," which equates recovering from a relationship to -- you guessed it -- recovering from addiction. Lyrically, the album alternates between heartbroken ("I can't survive unless I know you're with me"), hopeful ("three months and I'm still breathing"), and mad as heck ("does it hurt/to know I'll never be there/bet it sucks to see my face everywhere"). Clarkson's contemplative look into relationships will resonate with many.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: June 26, 2007
Label: RCA
Genre: Pop
This review was written by Conny Coon
 
 

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What parents & educators say

Most useful reviews by all members

MyChemicalMusic
teen, 16 years old
 
She..Uhh...........
Well, the slowness is boring and it makes it seem VERY depressing. Although the lyrics AREN'T!!
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bushra
teen, 16 years old
 
i cried! i laughed!
It is good for kids to have to watch movies,games,tv,books and top pin. i really like this website thanks alot to make this website. it is good for kids like me and it is good for reading i love this website. It is good for everyone kids or parents. i like the games that they have it cool! you people rock! thanks!
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Bailey
adult
 
The BEST CD ever since Breakaway
This is a great CD for kids 10+ and adults! A few bad words, (not like the s or f word but like D**n and sexy) my personal favorites are Hole, Sober, HAUNTED, Mybe and how i feel. I totally recemend this to some kids, teens and adults!
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catch the tinking
teen, 15 years old
 
no
i like it
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Michael G.
adult
 
Kelly's New Album Rocks My Socks!!
Wow..Wow...wow...What can I say? I bought Kelly's second (that I'm aware of) album, "Breakaway", and wasn't that impressed. There were the huge singles, and then there was crappy fillers. But every song on this album is awesome. I've listened to the album probably over 30 times now...honest to god. (Each song's review): "Never Again": I didn't like it at first, but I've grown to like it. 4/5 "One Minute": This song is one of my least favorite songs on the album. But it's still exceptionally good. 3/5 "Hole": I really like this song. 4/5 "Sober": Best song on the album!! Wonderful, powerful ballad. Reminds me sort of "Crazy for You"? "Don't Waste Your Time": Pretty good song. Kelly's vocals I think are a little...off...3/5 "Judas": A masterpiece!! 5/5 "Haunted": A good spooky, emo song. Love it! 4/5 "Be Still": Not the best song ever. But still not awful! 3/5 "Maybe": This is in a tie with "Sober" as the best song on the album!! Whoohoo!! Very emotional/her vocals show it!! 5/5 "How I Feel": I haven't really listened to this one..From what I've heard, it's good though. 3/5 "Yeah": Oh...forgot about this one...This song sucks...It's so annoying..don't download it! 1/5 "Can I Have A Kiss": A great song...the beginning is the best part; don't really like the chorus. 3/5 "Irvine": I love the lyrics to this song, and it has beautiful music. 4/5 Buy this album!!! Please!!!!
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modern_elegance
teen, 17 years old
 
A Very Good Follow up...depressing at times though
I didn't think language, sexual content, or violence was a problem here. It is apparent she is very bitter from past relationships...and not all messages are ones that should be cultivated into youths...but overall it was a really nice album and I recommend it to anyone over Twelve years of age.
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Casper
adult
 
Couldn't stop singing!!!
OK. First off, to release some anger to a reviewer beneath my post. I do not think this an "Emo" album. And Hot Topic makes me laugh. Hot Topic is a fake store created for people who spend their days behind a mask made out of sadness and anger. Yeah, I go to that store, but only because they sell some merchandise for some cartoons I can't find anywhere else except, um, the internet? And Emo. That...horrible label...capable of destroying a strong human... This CD, though a bit angst at times, is still a phenomenal piece of music. Kelly still has it, though I wonder how long it stays.
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sara4ever95
teen, 16 years old
11
 
i love her
u rock
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hurt_foot46
teen, 16 years old
 
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softballfan6609
teen, 16 years old
 
definatley not as happy as 'Breakaway'
its kind of like the chris daughtry album only sung by a girl. its dark and is more rock than girl-pop
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Razzberri
teen, 14 years old
 
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teen, 15 years old
 
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mistermeaner77
teen, 17 years old
 
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