On a crisp December evening in 2025, amid the glow of Christmas lights and the buzz of holiday cheer, Kelly Clarkson delivered a performance that transcended music—it touched souls. During a special holiday segment on The Kelly Clarkson Show, the Grammy-winning superstar invited her young son, Remington “Remy” Alexander, to join her on stage for a duet of her iconic Christmas hit, “Underneath the Tree.” In front of a live studio audience and millions watching at home, the spotlight shifted from spectacle to something profoundly intimate: the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. As their voices blended in harmony, the arena fell hushed, smiles spread across faces, and the true essence of Christmas—family and togetherness—filled the air.
The moment was pure magic. Clarkson, radiant in a festive outfit, held the microphone close as nine-year-old Remy stood beside her, his small hand occasionally reaching for hers. The song, already a modern holiday classic with its upbeat Phil Spector-inspired Wall of Sound production, sleigh bells, and joyful lyrics about love being the greatest gift, took on new depth. Lines like “You’re all that I need / Underneath the tree” felt personal, as if sung directly from a mother’s heart to her child. Remy’s sweet, innocent voice chimed in on the chorus, his enthusiasm shining through despite his young age. There were no elaborate effects or backup dancers—just Kelly, Remy, a piano accompaniment, and the warmth of the season.
Viewers described the crowd’s reaction as electric yet tender. The audience leaned forward, captivated, many with tears in their eyes. Social media lit up immediately, with fans posting clips and declaring it the holiday highlight of the year. “This wasn’t a performance; it was a memory we’ll hold onto forever,” one viewer wrote. Another added, “Kelly and Remy just redefined Christmas magic—no showmanship needed, just love.”
Kelly Clarkson has long been celebrated for her powerhouse vocals and relatable personality. The original American Idol winner in 2002, she burst onto the scene with hits like “Since U Been Gone” and “Breakaway,” evolving into a versatile artist with albums spanning pop, rock, soul, and country influences. Her 2013 Christmas album Wrapped in Red solidified her as a holiday favorite, with “Underneath the Tree” becoming a perennial chart-topper, often hailed as the best new Christmas song since Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Co-written with Greg Kurstin, the track’s infectious energy and heartfelt message have made it a staple on radio playlists and streaming services every December.
Motherhood has always been central to Clarkson’s life. She shares two children with her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock: daughter River Rose, born in 2014, and son Remington, born in 2016. Despite a high-profile divorce finalized in 2022 and personal challenges, including health journeys and career demands, Clarkson has prioritized her kids. She often shares glimpses of family life on her talk show, from Remy’s surprise appearances to River’s artistic talents. In 2025, amid a busy year that included promoting new music, hosting her Emmy-winning daytime show, and preparing for expanded Las Vegas residencies, Clarkson made family moments like this duet a priority.
Remy, affectionately called Remy by fans, has shown early signs of inheriting his mom’s musical gifts. Previous appearances on the show have featured him singing classics like Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” charming audiences with his confidence and pitch-perfect notes for his age. This Christmas duet, however, felt different—more vulnerable and joyful. Clarkson later shared in an interview segment that inviting Remy on stage was spontaneous, born from their at-home sing-alongs during holiday preparations. “He knows all the words to my songs,” she laughed, “and this one just felt right for us to share.”
The performance resonated deeply because it captured Christmas at its core: not the presents or lights, but the people we hold close. In a season often overwhelmed by commercialism and grandeur, Kelly and Remy’s simple duet stripped it back to basics. No massive production, no guest stars—just a mother guiding her son through a melody, their voices weaving together like a warm blanket on a winter night. The pauses where Remy glanced up at his mom for reassurance, the shared smiles during the bridge, and the triumphant final chorus created an intimacy that felt almost private, even broadcast to the world.
Fans and critics alike praised the authenticity. Social feeds buzzed with heartfelt reactions: parents relating to the pride in watching their child shine, longtime Clarkson supporters moved by her evolution from pop star to devoted mom, and new viewers discovering the song’s magic through this lens. Clips went viral, amassing millions of views, with many calling for an official recording or family holiday album. It even sparked conversations about legacy—how Clarkson’s music, once about heartbreak and empowerment, now often reflects joy, resilience, and family.
This year had extra emotional weight for Clarkson. Following personal losses and triumphs, including navigating co-parenting and focusing on mental health, moments like these served as reminders of gratitude. She has spoken openly about finding balance, relocating to New York for her show to create stability for her kids, and embracing the holidays as a time for healing and connection. Sharing the stage with Remy wasn’t just entertainment; it was a celebration of survival and love.
As the final note faded and the audience erupted in applause, Kelly scooped Remy into a hug, whispering something that made him giggle. It was a snapshot of pure happiness—the kind that lingers long after the lights dim. In an era of polished, high-concept performances, this duet stood out for its raw emotion. People didn’t just watch; they felt it in their hearts, evoking memories of their own family traditions, childhood Christmases, and the simple joy of singing with loved ones.
“Underneath the Tree” has always been about realizing that material gifts pale beside true companionship. In this rendition, with Remy by her side, Clarkson embodied that message perfectly. The song didn’t just play; it lived, breathing new life into a holiday anthem. For those who witnessed it, whether in the studio or at home gathered with family, it became more than a performance—it was a gift, one that captured the feeling of Christmas as it’s meant to be: warm, familiar, and full of love.
As 2025’s holiday season wrapped up, this mother-son moment remained a standout, replayed in homes and shared online. It reminded everyone that the best memories often come unscripted, from the heart. Kelly Clarkson and Remy didn’t need a massive arena or pyrotechnics; their bond was the real spotlight, shining brighter than any stage lights. And in that, they gave the world something unforgettable—a reminder to cherish the ones underneath our own trees.
