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4 out of 5 stars

The Hamilton Mixtape [📷: Atlantic]Pop sensation Kelly Clarkson makes an appearance on the Hamilton Mixtape, covering “It’s Quiet Uptown.”

Pop sensation Kelly Clarkson appears on the upcoming Hamilton Mixtape, due Dec. 2, 2016.  The Hamilton Mixtape features covers by various artists of the music from the blockbuster musical. Kelly Clarkson covers “It’s Quiet Uptown.” Interestingly, “It’s Quiet Uptown” was among the first covers released ahead of Hamilton Mixtape.

Clarkson treats “It’s Quiet Uptown” like an urban-pop ballad. This interpretation isn’t a bad look. It opens with lush pads, rivaling  the 80s-inspired sound of Piece by Piece.  This makes “It’s Quiet Uptown” a nice fit for Clarkson.

Throughout its course, Clarkson delivers a performance characterized by clear, rich vocals.  The main rub is that it loses some of its theatrical oomph.  Had Clarkson had some additional assistance like the original, it would’ve kicked this cover up a notch.


Final Thoughts

All in all, Clarkson gives a well-rounded performance on “It’s Quiet Uptown.” Honestly, who would expect anything less from Clarkson? That said, it’s not quite as exciting, memorable, or as rousing as the original.  Still, this is a sound performance.

4 out of 5 stars


Various Artists • The Hamilton Mixtape • Atlantic • Release: 12.2.16
Photo Credit: Atlantic


the musical hype

the musical hype (Brent Faulkner) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.