Rascal Flatts were already big fans of Kelly Clarkson, with the admiration going both ways. The trio asked Clarkson to join them on "I'm Movin' On." The song is from their new Life Is A Highway: Refueled Duets record. Although Rascal Flatts knew Clarkson would sing it well, they were still blown away when they heard her vocals.
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"'I'm Movin' On' that Kelly did was such a magical, moving moment," lead singer Gary LeVox says. "She had already done the vocal by the time I got in there. We just kind of listened to it really, and it was so good. And I think at that point in her life, that song, she was living it. And so, it was just right for her to do it, and us just put a little salt and pepper on it."
Jay DeMarcus praises both LeVox and Clarkson for what they did -- and didn't -- sing, for the new version of Rascal Flatts' 2001 hit single.
"I think it's kind of a nice surprise when you come out of nowhere at the end of that last verse," DeMarcus tells LeVox. "And that song, the kind of singers you guys are, it'd be easy to do every lick and every run and sing in the stratosphere. But that song is about the emotion of that message. And that's what was front and center for me. When she sang it, you felt it with conviction. And so, I think the restraint that's shown on that arrangement is perfect for the message of that song."
'Life Is A Highway: Refueled Duets'
Rascal Flatts are also joined by several other artists on the new record, including Carly Pearce, Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, the Backstreet Boys and more.
"It was such an honor to create this project with such incredibly talented artists. It's a pretty indescribable feeling having your colleagues and friends do your songs in such unique ways and knock your socks off with the results," LeVox says. "This album is just another attempt for us to thank our fans for the blessings they've given us on this crazy journey the past 25 years. Thanks for riding along with us!"
Rascal Flatts currently have a Top 40 hit with "I Dare You,," their collaboration with the Jonas Brothers. The trio is currently headlining their Life Is A Highway Tour.
Life Is A Highway: Refueled Duets will be out on June 6.
