Kelly Clarkson continues to wow audiences with her knack for reimagining classics in her “Kellyoke” segment, and her latest cover takes us back to the 1980s with an unforgettable performance of The Bangles’ hit “Walk Like an Egyptian.” With her characteristic energy and powerhouse vocals, Clarkson brought a new flair to the iconic track on her daytime talk show, The Kelly Clarkson Show.
In a stunning blue and red patterned mini-dress, Clarkson hit the stage with confidence, surrounded by her talented band, My Band Y’all, who provided lively backing vocals and instrumentation. The audience was immediately captivated as Clarkson launched into the chorus, belting out the familiar line, “All the kids in the marketplace say/ Walk like an Egyptian,” adding her unique twist to the song’s rhythm and melody.
Kelly Clarkson Covers ‘Walk Like an Egyptian’ on Kellyoke
Over the years, Clarkson has earned a reputation for her captivating Kellyoke covers, where she performs a wide range of songs spanning various genres and eras. Her version of “Walk Like an Egyptian” is no exception. While remaining faithful to the original spirit of the track, Clarkson brought her vocal prowess to a song that was originally defined by its playful lyrics and catchy beat.
“Walk Like an Egyptian” was a massive success for The Bangles, who made history with this track as it reached the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1987, becoming the band’s first major chart-topping hit. With her performance, Clarkson paid tribute to this 80s classic, breathing new life into it and giving fans a delightful dose of nostalgia.
Dressed in a retro-inspired mini-dress, Clarkson fully embraced the essence of the era. Her outfit, combined with her dynamic stage presence and vocal delivery, added a fresh, modern edge to the song, which resonated with fans both old and new.
The Legacy of The Bangles’ 1980s Classic
The Bangles’ “Walk Like an Egyptian” is more than just a catchy tune—it’s a cultural moment that captures the spirit of the 1980s. Written by songwriter Liam Sternberg, the track features lyrics that humorously depict people from different walks of life trying to “walk like an Egyptian.” Its unique concept and upbeat rhythm quickly made it a favorite among listeners, catapulting it to the top of the charts.
The song’s distinctive style, combining rock and pop influences with an exotic flair, helped it stand out in the music scene at the time. Its infectious melody and memorable chorus turned it into a global sensation, making The Bangles one of the most recognizable bands of the decade. The band’s original members, including Susanna Hoffs, Vicki Peterson, and Debbi Peterson, delivered a performance that was as lively as the track itself, setting the standard for a fun, singable pop-rock anthem.
Clarkson’s Take on an Iconic Song
Kelly Clarkson’s rendition of “Walk Like an Egyptian” highlights her versatility as an artist. Known for her powerful voice and ability to convey emotion, Clarkson put her unique spin on the track, blending her soulful vocal style with the playful tone of the song. Her interpretation added depth to the lighthearted lyrics, creating a performance that both honors the original and stands on its own.
In previous Kellyoke segments, Clarkson has covered everything from rock to country, showcasing her ability to adapt to different genres. Her performance of “Walk Like an Egyptian” fits perfectly within this repertoire, showing once again that she can take any song and make it her own.
How 'Walk Like an Egyptian' Became a Billboard Hit
When The Bangles released “Walk Like an Egyptian” in 1986, they likely had no idea it would become their most iconic hit. The song spent four weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, dominating the airwaves and becoming Billboard’s top song of 1987. Its success can be attributed to its catchy tune, relatable lyrics, and The Bangles’ energetic performance, which made it a favorite among music lovers worldwide.
The track’s unique sound and quirky lyrics also resonated with audiences, adding a playful, carefree vibe to the 1980s music scene. Even decades later, “Walk Like an Egyptian” remains a beloved classic, frequently covered by artists like Clarkson who want to capture its infectious energy.
Clarkson’s Upcoming Performance at Christmas in Rockefeller Center
In addition to her Kellyoke performances, Clarkson is gearing up for another exciting event this year—her second consecutive appearance as the host of NBC’s annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center telecast on Dec. 4. The highly anticipated holiday special, which includes the iconic Rockefeller Center tree-lighting ceremony, promises to be a festive evening filled with music, joy, and holiday spirit.
This year, Clarkson will not only host but also perform some of her favorite holiday hits. With two Christmas albums to her name—Wrapped in Red (2013) and When Christmas Comes Around… (2021)—Clarkson has a wealth of holiday music to choose from. Her setlist is expected to include both timeless holiday classics and original tracks, giving fans a perfect blend of familiar and new tunes.
Clarkson’s holiday performances are known for their warmth and emotional resonance, making her a fitting choice for this cherished Christmas tradition. As fans eagerly await the event, many are excited to see which songs she’ll perform and what special surprises might be in store.
What Fans Can Expect at the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Event
The Christmas in Rockefeller Center telecast is one of the most highly anticipated holiday events each year, drawing viewers from across the country. This year, with Clarkson as host and performer, the excitement is even higher. In addition to her own holiday classics, Clarkson is expected to share the stage with other renowned artists, though the full lineup has yet to be announced.
The Rockefeller Center tree-lighting ceremony has become a beloved holiday tradition, symbolizing the start of the Christmas season. With Clarkson’s infectious energy and powerful vocals, this year’s event promises to be memorable. Fans can look forward to heartfelt renditions of holiday songs, along with the dazzling sight of the massive tree illuminated with thousands of lights.
The Impact of Kellyoke on Clarkson’s Career
Clarkson’s Kellyoke performances have become a highlight of The Kelly Clarkson Show, showcasing her range and versatility. Each cover allows her to connect with a diverse audience, as she brings new interpretations to songs that span genres and eras. Whether she’s covering pop hits, rock anthems, or country ballads, Clarkson’s Kellyoke has solidified her status as one of the most talented and beloved vocalists in the music industry.
Her rendition of “Walk Like an Egyptian” is a testament to her ability to take a song from any genre and make it uniquely hers. By revisiting classics like this one, Clarkson not only celebrates the music of past decades but also introduces it to a new generation of listeners. Her Kellyoke performances have become a platform for musical exploration, allowing her to pay homage to her influences while showcasing her artistic versatility.
Why ‘Walk Like an Egyptian’ Remains Timeless
Decades after its release, “Walk Like an Egyptian” remains a popular song that resonates with audiences of all ages. Its catchy melody, quirky lyrics, and upbeat tempo make it a song that’s hard to resist. For fans of The Bangles, Clarkson’s cover is a nostalgic reminder of the 1980s, a time when music was vibrant and unrestrained.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal theme of self-expression and fun. The act of “walking like an Egyptian” becomes a playful metaphor for individuality and freedom. This timeless message, combined with the song’s lively beat, has helped it maintain its place in pop culture, even as musical tastes have evolved.
Clarkson’s Ongoing Commitment to Musical Excellence
As Kelly Clarkson continues to expand her Kellyoke repertoire, she remains committed to delivering high-quality performances that resonate with her audience. Her dedication to honoring the original spirit of each song, while adding her personal touch, has made her Kellyoke segment a fan favorite.
Clarkson’s performance of “Walk Like an Egyptian” is more than just a cover—it’s a celebration of the music that has shaped her as an artist. By bringing classic songs to life on her show, she bridges the gap between generations, allowing older fans to relive their favorite musical moments while introducing younger fans to iconic tracks.
Looking Ahead: More Kellyoke and Holiday Cheer
As Clarkson prepares for her role in Christmas in Rockefeller Center, fans can look forward to more unforgettable Kellyoke moments and holiday performances. With her talent, charisma, and passion for music, Clarkson is sure to deliver a show-stopping holiday experience that captures the magic of the season.
From her rendition of “Walk Like an Egyptian” to her upcoming Christmas performances, Kelly Clarkson continues to demonstrate why she is one of today’s most versatile and beloved artists. Her ability to connect with fans, honor musical classics, and put her own spin on each song has solidified her status as a true icon in the music industry. As the year comes to a close, there’s no doubt that Clarkson will continue to surprise and inspire her audience with her unwavering dedication to musical excellence.
