Piece by Piece (song)
"Piece by Piece" is a song written and performed by American singer-songwriter Kelly Clarkson. It was released on February 27, 2015, as the second single from her seventh studio album of the same name.
The song is a deeply personal ballad that explores themes of abandonment, redemption, and the impact of fatherhood (or lack thereof). In "Piece by Piece," Clarkson contrasts her own experience of having an absent father with her husband's commitment and love for their daughter. The lyrics describe how her husband's unwavering dedication is "fixing" the broken pieces left by her father's absence.
Clarkson's emotional performances of "Piece by Piece," particularly on American Idol, garnered significant attention and critical acclaim. The song resonated with audiences due to its vulnerability and relatable subject matter. Following the American Idol performance, the song experienced a surge in sales and radio airplay, reaching a new peak on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
"Piece by Piece" received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Solo Performance in 2016. The song's success is attributed not only to its lyrical content and Clarkson's powerful vocals but also to its raw emotional honesty and the universality of its themes. It is often considered one of Clarkson's most impactful and emotionally resonant songs.