Kelly Clarkson Vegas Residency: Why She Fought to Continue | Exclusive

Kelly Clarkson Reschedules Las Vegas Residency Opening to Protect Voice

A temporary pause to prioritize vocal health has prompted Kelly Clarkson to postpone the launch of her highly anticipated Las Vegas residency, “Studio Sessions,” at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The Grammy-winning singer is now set to begin the 18-show engagement on Friday, July 11.

The decision to delay the opening performances, originally scheduled for July 4 and 5, was not made lightly, according to sources close to the artist. “She didn’t want to cancel any shows,” a source told PEOPLE, “but had to in order to protect her vocal cords—a dilemma that greatly upset her.”

Clarkson, 43, expressed her disappointment to fans via an Instagram post, explaining that intensive preparation and rehearsals had begun to strain her voice. She emphasized her commitment to delivering a flawless show, stating, “I want the shows to be perfect for y’all. The show is truly incredible. The musicians and singers are outstanding, and I want us all to start out strong.”

The vocal strain reportedly developed rapidly following extended rehearsal sessions. “It came on quickly,” the source explained, adding that Clarkson’s dedication to her craft often leads her to push her limits. The arid climate of Las Vegas also presented a challenge to her vocal health. “Vegas is very dry too and it seemed this was an issue as well,” the source noted, “She was pretty much forced to [in order to] prevent long-term damage.”

Despite the initial setback, the artist is now confident and prepared to take the stage this weekend. “She’s ready to kick things off this weekend though,” the source confirmed.

Clarkson first announced the residency in February, expressing her excitement about returning to Las Vegas following successful sold-out performances at PH Live at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in 2023 and 2024. She recently concluded the sixth season of her daytime talk show, “Kelly Clarkson Show,” with a seventh season planned for the fall.

This postponement underscores the physical demands placed on professional singers and the importance of prioritizing vocal health, even for seasoned performers like Clarkson. The singer’s dedication to providing an exceptional experience for her fans ultimately drove the difficult decision to reschedule, ensuring a strong and vibrant start to her Las Vegas residency.