My December
by Kelly Clarkson
  • Record Label: RCA
  • Release Date: Jun 26, 2007
User Score
6.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 313 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 214 out of 313
  2. Mixed: 16 out of 313
  3. Negative: 83 out of 313

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  1. pieber
    Mar 22, 2021
    8
    My December is clearly the least beautiful Kelly Clarkson's album but she's my all-time fav singer so I obviously still love it but compared to the others, that are more than amazing, it's undeniably the most boring one. I do love a lot of songs from this album tho: Sober, Yeah, Maybe, Irvine and Chivas are very good and well-written.
  2. noahnoah
    Jul 27, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Desde do seu lançamento em 2007 My December, foi um marco pontual na carreira de Kelly Clarkson, de maneira ambivalente. A luta por liberdade de expressão dentro do seu contexto profissional e as calgadas amorosas que traziam crescimento emocional e a racionalização dentro de suas letras autorais, mostrando assim uma artista com potencial completo de criação, produção e identidade única.… Expand
  3. pauldiam
    Jun 24, 2018
    9
    This is her darkest album to date. Very risque and artistic. She went against her label and although it didn't pay off with the public response, it is a great album and adds to her pop-rock status.
  4. joethealien
    Sep 15, 2017
    9
    an insanely underrated pop rock masterwork.
    there's emotive soft rock (Sober, Maybe), heavy handed power pop (One Minute, Hole) and even a Tragic Kingdom-era new wave throwback (How I Feel). nothing is compromised though, with only slight hints of writer's inhibition on Don't Waste Your Time and Can I Have a Kiss (which is otherwise gentle and warm, reminiscent of a certain track 9 on    an insanely underrated pop rock masterwork.
    there's emotive soft rock (Sober, Maybe), heavy handed power pop (One Minute, Hole) and even a Tragic Kingdom-era new wave throwback (How I Feel). nothing is compromised though, with only slight hints of writer's inhibition on Don't Waste Your Time and Can I Have a Kiss (which is otherwise gentle and warm, reminiscent of a certain track 9 on Breakaway).
    there's intense profundity, which many reviews have neglected to address, instead focusing on a perceived "lack of memorable hooks." the hooks are tighter and require more attention than the poppier, more consistent ones from Breakaway and Thankful did. Irvine is essentially an open letter to a higher power, and Haunted is intense commentary from a sorrowful friend after a close friend's suicide. highlight Sober is an exceptional paean to recovery, filled to the brim with chilling orchestral swells and a timpani heartbeat. My December is Kelly's first whole artistic statement, and it's a damn fine one at that.
    most memorable hooks, for the naysayers: Sober, How I Feel, the P!nkesque rock stomper Judas
    standouts: Sober, Judas, Maybe, Be Still, Irvine
    seriously, don't forget about this one, I'm sure it'll be thought of as an artistic triumph in a few years. Sober has helped depressed kids aplenty (cringy perhaps, but true)    … Expand
  5. diogodelcistia
    Feb 4, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Kelly Clarkson is amazing! This is my "second favorite album" of this amazing singer, behind Breakaway. The hit from the album, "Never Again", is one of the best songs in My December. "One Minute", "Judas" and "Sober" deserved more attention and publicity, but none of it happened by the fight of Clarkson with the label.… Expand
  6. ElieBennet
    Jun 22, 2013
    10
    This is (along with Breakaway) one of the best Kelly albums! Is 2013 now, and still is a master piece. Very personal, dark (even though "BR album" is as dark as this one), rocker and souful. MAYBE is by far a master piece, Irvine, Sober, Haunted, Yeah, Fading are so perfect. I think for the most of people, they have to be in "the mood" for get into it and see its greatness. This album isThis is (along with Breakaway) one of the best Kelly albums! Is 2013 now, and still is a master piece. Very personal, dark (even though "BR album" is as dark as this one), rocker and souful. MAYBE is by far a master piece, Irvine, Sober, Haunted, Yeah, Fading are so perfect. I think for the most of people, they have to be in "the mood" for get into it and see its greatness. This album is the reason that I ended for having respect for Kelly as an artist and not just as another poppy singer out there. Many people were influenced by media and got blinded for appreciate all the beauty about this jewel. And if you add the Clive Davis complot, that's why this album "didn't got well" (fyi this album sold over 1Million in US... So, I don't get the hate) and stopped its potencial to be a huge success as it deserved... Orgullosa de ser fan de una artista y verdadera cantante como Kelly So proud to be her fan!… Expand
  7. radiobenji
    Nov 4, 2011
    10
    If I could give this album an eleven, I would, so will just have to make 10 louder... My December still remains my all-time favourite album from any artist, there's a lot of hoopla about the album not containing any stand out singles but I have to disagree, Can I Have A Kiss is one of the most beautiful songs ever written, Don't Waste Your Time rings true to every friendship known toIf I could give this album an eleven, I would, so will just have to make 10 louder... My December still remains my all-time favourite album from any artist, there's a lot of hoopla about the album not containing any stand out singles but I have to disagree, Can I Have A Kiss is one of the most beautiful songs ever written, Don't Waste Your Time rings true to every friendship known to humanity, One Minute is a hot track that alone exceeds anything on Breakaway, Irvine is heartbreaking, Be Still is mellow and laid back and just darn cool, Never Again is a major step up from Behind These Hazel Eyes, and Sober is just, sublime. But overall, the stand out is Maybe. WOW, what a song. I left out a few tracks which does not devalue their worth to the album, as the record from start to finish flows brilliantly and tells the story of a girl who's lost and maybe a little bit lonely. One of the very few music recommendations I would make. 11/10… Expand
  8. AustinC
    Jun 8, 2009
    10
    Kelly Clarkson has became known as the girl who does incredibly addicting and catchy pop music. Her sophomore album, 'Breakaway,' was all about that. Yes, it was fantastic, and probably one of 2004's best albums. However, 'My December' is much better. At first, it's a shock to hear this deeper, more raw side of Clarkson, but listen closely. Give the album two Kelly Clarkson has became known as the girl who does incredibly addicting and catchy pop music. Her sophomore album, 'Breakaway,' was all about that. Yes, it was fantastic, and probably one of 2004's best albums. However, 'My December' is much better. At first, it's a shock to hear this deeper, more raw side of Clarkson, but listen closely. Give the album two or three more tries. You'll soon see that 'My December' is easily Kelly Clarkson's best album to date. The lyrics are strong and deep meaningful. Some standouts in the lyrics definitely belong to "Sober." Just check out the first verse: "And I don't know/This could break my heart or save me/Nothing's real/Until you let go completely/So here I ho with all my thoughts/I've been saving/So here I go with all my fear/Weighing on me". Not only are the lyrics simply amazing, but the instrumentals to all the songs are a mature pop/rockers bliss. Some of the best instrumentals can be heard in "Never Again," "Haunted," and "Judas." All have spine-tingling strings and the drums are outstanding. It's raw and real. It's an album you can sit and listen to all the way through without skipping a single track. It's is depressing that the album lacked promo and especially lacked in singles. "Never Again" and "Sober" were the US singles. "One Minute" and "Don't Waste My Time" were international singles, but didn't have very good promo at all. You can thank Clive Davis for that. There were many hits on this album, it's just that people needed time to get used to this side of Clarkson that they weren't used to seeing.… Expand
  9. DeannaD
    May 15, 2009
    10
    This is an amazing album, however I can understand the label's hesitancy to release it, since all they care about is how much money they can get out of Kelly. This album is not for bubblegum Clarkson fans, this album is for MUSIC fans. This people who don't like this album lack the ability to see inside the song, put themselves in Kelly's shoes as she was writing it, and This is an amazing album, however I can understand the label's hesitancy to release it, since all they care about is how much money they can get out of Kelly. This album is not for bubblegum Clarkson fans, this album is for MUSIC fans. This people who don't like this album lack the ability to see inside the song, put themselves in Kelly's shoes as she was writing it, and see it for the artistry that it is. This album is brutal, honest, and at the same time uptempo and interesting. Kelly Clarkson is a songwriting genius and I pray that she is able to follow her heart and continue writing and releasing music like this.… Expand
  10. Diego
    Mar 12, 2009
    9
    This CD will become appreciated within time. The haunting and intimate feeling of Irvine, the incredible composition of Sober, and the funky anthem How I Feel are all reasons that this is the best of Kelly's 4 albums even if it did not sell millions of records and make RCA as rich as they'd like to be. Platinum is not a failure.
  11. Ameliaw
    Feb 10, 2009
    10
    Wonderful album! Since when is an album a joke because it has meaningful lyrics? You go Kelly! We love you!
  12. MikeM
    Jan 14, 2009
    10
    Clarkson uses her real life expieriences, and writes some of the best lyrics ever. In addition to killer lyrics, her voice is haunting [in a good way] and powerful. Rock on Kelly!
  13. Annie
    Dec 1, 2008
    10
    I didn't like this album at first, but gradually, i found myself addicted to it, can't stop listening to it. All songs are great.
  14. KenyZ
    Aug 8, 2008
    10
    This album is not amazing... it is amaz-zing.
  15. VictorH.
    Jan 24, 2008
    9
    Kelly's My December shows how far she can go with her voice ability, and writing ability. Tracks such as "Can I Have A Kiss?" present Kelly's view on simple things, on her way, and also with the ok-I'm-fine "How I Feel". Kelly's lowest point, in sadness, are shown in "Irvine". It, plus "Chivas", ends up the album with a "golden key". My December hasn't shown the Kelly's My December shows how far she can go with her voice ability, and writing ability. Tracks such as "Can I Have A Kiss?" present Kelly's view on simple things, on her way, and also with the ok-I'm-fine "How I Feel". Kelly's lowest point, in sadness, are shown in "Irvine". It, plus "Chivas", ends up the album with a "golden key". My December hasn't shown the world what it can do yet.… Expand
  16. MelissaB.
    Sep 22, 2007
    10
    Clive Davis was wrong and so are all of the other critics who give this CD a low rating. This music has substance!! It is awesome. The lyrics very unique and different. Can I have a Kiss is my personal favorite. "Don't move, I want to remember you just like this" What words! Also love Judas! Great great great music. Go Kelly, keep writing and doing what you do.
  17. ZonieZen
    Sep 20, 2007
    8
    Fine album. although breakaway was much much better.
  18. SelinaL.
    Sep 19, 2007
    10
    Great album kelly. This album is the best!I love the "yeah" song, this album really shows feeling and passion and what life is really about.Everybody should be like you!Too many people are listening to a load of bull like these stupid love songs like thats all life is about just falling in love over and over again and how its sooo special and how they made mistakes blah blah blah but you Great album kelly. This album is the best!I love the "yeah" song, this album really shows feeling and passion and what life is really about.Everybody should be like you!Too many people are listening to a load of bull like these stupid love songs like thats all life is about just falling in love over and over again and how its sooo special and how they made mistakes blah blah blah but you aren't like that and thats whats great about this album the most, a strong woman and not all these weak lovey dovey i need a boyfriend to help me live popstars. We need more people like you Kelly! Rock on!… Expand
  19. RobertF.
    Sep 13, 2007
    10
    I have to admit I was a bit weary of this album due to the controversy surrounding it. That being said I love this album. The change in musical direction is obvious although not a complete 180. This album is one of the best this year. The songs are deep, personal and reflect Kelly at the crossroads in her life/career she is at and allows us to glimpse a little more of Kelly as a person I have to admit I was a bit weary of this album due to the controversy surrounding it. That being said I love this album. The change in musical direction is obvious although not a complete 180. This album is one of the best this year. The songs are deep, personal and reflect Kelly at the crossroads in her life/career she is at and allows us to glimpse a little more of Kelly as a person and artist. Her voice is undeniably powerful and it also makes these songs stand out. Songs like One Minute/Judas and Don't Waste Your Time are reminiscent if not a progression from Since You Been Gone and Behind These Hazel Eyes. Sober is a powerful ballad that is sung to perfection. Other standouts are the funky Yeah, The haunting Be Still. At the end of the day Kelly is a great song writer. If you were expecting this to be another Breakaway you may be shocked. This is less pop and more Kelly. Her passion and emotion is so evident in her songs. She is honest and true to her self and her music. This album is a shining jem in the over produced music world we are living in at the moment. This album will carry Kelly to new heights that nobody may ever have expected!! This album deserves huge success.… Expand
  20. A.T
    Sep 2, 2007
    10
    I think this album is really a piece of art, i mean it's really a wonderful parade of emotions and depth, people just think that music is all about hits and fun things like " oh i like you boy i want you mine " or crap like that they forget that music is also a way of dealing with serious issues and this album is really great, i mean Kelly Clarkson has the most I think this album is really a piece of art, i mean it's really a wonderful parade of emotions and depth, people just think that music is all about hits and fun things like " oh i like you boy i want you mine " or crap like that they forget that music is also a way of dealing with serious issues and this album is really great, i mean Kelly Clarkson has the most wonderful/powerful/deep voice I've ever listened to! this girl is gifted and she's the best! keep on the good work I'm glad that we have someone like you who knows what's life and not like all the bimbo celebrities! i really love her ! you're an idol for everyone!your kindness and your smile! how you're so down to earth and how beautiful you are!you're a the one to look up to!… Expand
  21. HarryU.
    Aug 20, 2007
    10
    I still wonder why most of the comments sent by the public are so annoying. Kelly, your album is extremely awesome. Everything people tend to say is not true. For me, your album is always the best. Futhermore, it is much better than any other female artists like the thin Avril or the disgusting Nelly Furtado. And of course far better than the 'talking rather than singing" Fergie. A I still wonder why most of the comments sent by the public are so annoying. Kelly, your album is extremely awesome. Everything people tend to say is not true. For me, your album is always the best. Futhermore, it is much better than any other female artists like the thin Avril or the disgusting Nelly Furtado. And of course far better than the 'talking rather than singing" Fergie. A huge appreciation from me for publishing this overwhelming CD. I really love Never Again. It's so rebellious and sincere. Just one more thing Kelly, i would like to affirm that Simon was absolutely right about you. I was not strong enough to deny it.… Expand
  22. SabrinaG
    Aug 13, 2007
    10
    I love this album!
  23. Lisag
    Aug 12, 2007
    9
    I have like Kelly Clarkson since American Idol, but I am not really a pop rock fan either. She has an amazing voice and her previous songs/ albums are very good even if they tend to be more pop rock. I personally like the new direction she is taking with her music - its different than the pop rock crap out there. Are all the songs to my taste - No, but what album has that type of draw? I I have like Kelly Clarkson since American Idol, but I am not really a pop rock fan either. She has an amazing voice and her previous songs/ albums are very good even if they tend to be more pop rock. I personally like the new direction she is taking with her music - its different than the pop rock crap out there. Are all the songs to my taste - No, but what album has that type of draw? I feel that this is her first effort at determining where she wants to go- and the others while extremly good was at the direction of someone else. I think the critics are far to harsh- because after all its the public that buys the CD's let them determine if they like it.… Expand
  24. JanH.
    Aug 8, 2007
    10
    I really don't get what there is not to like about this album. It is real and authentic. Kelly proves she she is a real artist. vocally, this is by far kelly's best album.
  25. AngieB.
    Aug 3, 2007
    10
    I thoroughly enjoyed this CD and all of the songs on it. The first time I listened through it I wasn't impressed... but the more that I listen to it, the more real it is! She is showing her true heart and the lyrics in many of the songs have touched me to the core (especially Don't Waste Your Time and Maybe!). Love it, Kelly!
  26. JessicaM
    Jul 28, 2007
    8
    I have to admit that the songs on this CD aren't as catchy as the songs on her "Breakaway" album, but you can't expect an artist to just pull out hit albums from their butt all the time. With that said, I don't think that this album is in any way a failure either. I feel that Kelly made a more raw personal album with more emotion and a little more substance than some of the I have to admit that the songs on this CD aren't as catchy as the songs on her "Breakaway" album, but you can't expect an artist to just pull out hit albums from their butt all the time. With that said, I don't think that this album is in any way a failure either. I feel that Kelly made a more raw personal album with more emotion and a little more substance than some of the cookie cutter songs that she's done in her previous album. Also I feel bad that her record sales weren't as good as previous ones for whatever reason, and I hope she doesn't take it as a failure. Making an album isn't only about record sales...it's about the love of music and the passion of singing and expressing yourself. To me doing what you love is more important than just the sales.… Expand
  27. BigAl
    Jul 25, 2007
    10
    Clarkson wrote most if not all of this album herself, which is probably why some critics hate it; they would rather hear a second version of regurgitated "Breakaway" songs than watch Kelly grow as a legitimate artist. It doesn't matter to me how catchy the songs are. I listen to music to hear real emotions written by real musicians, not professional songwriters hired by Clive Davis. Clarkson wrote most if not all of this album herself, which is probably why some critics hate it; they would rather hear a second version of regurgitated "Breakaway" songs than watch Kelly grow as a legitimate artist. It doesn't matter to me how catchy the songs are. I listen to music to hear real emotions written by real musicians, not professional songwriters hired by Clive Davis. Leave that kind of music to the 'tweeners and let Kelly perform for the grown adults. I look forward to hearing more of her original material.… Expand
  28. FrankM
    Jul 25, 2007
    10
    This CD will go down in music history as a classic. The songs are well-written, hooky, yet artistic masterpieces. Clarkson needs to be teaching others. No wonder she won the writers' award for song of the year ("Because of You"). This album is simply an extension and edgy twist on "Breakaway." As a matter of fact, there are 6 songs that sound as if they came straight off of her 12 This CD will go down in music history as a classic. The songs are well-written, hooky, yet artistic masterpieces. Clarkson needs to be teaching others. No wonder she won the writers' award for song of the year ("Because of You"). This album is simply an extension and edgy twist on "Breakaway." As a matter of fact, there are 6 songs that sound as if they came straight off of her 12 million selling CD. But, at the same time, there are some tracks that are just plain art and should garner her numerous awards including a few Grammys. Excellent junior effort by Ms. Clarkson! She truly is a singer/songwriter... and a darn good one at that.… Expand
  29. WML
    Jul 23, 2007
    10
    Songs full of emotion written by the Artist herself is a selling point all on its own.
  30. DaveD
    Jul 18, 2007
    9
    Raw...compelling...and dark. Who says that happy is the only "valid" emotion. So is despair and heartbreak. And hasn't music been the best venue to express it? No immediate catchy hits but I score it high on delivering emotion through song. Anyone can sing about an "Umbrella" (sorry Rihanna) but lets give the girl some credit for having a big set of balls to sing about what Raw...compelling...and dark. Who says that happy is the only "valid" emotion. So is despair and heartbreak. And hasn't music been the best venue to express it? No immediate catchy hits but I score it high on delivering emotion through song. Anyone can sing about an "Umbrella" (sorry Rihanna) but lets give the girl some credit for having a big set of balls to sing about what she's feeling.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Most Discussed Album of 2007
84
#84 Most Shared Album of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 15
  3. Negative: 1 out of 15
  1. The Guardian
    60
    She writes in bland generalities... and uses her opulent voice as a battering ram.
    Read full review
  2. Entertainment Weekly
    83
    Kelly Clarkson's darker, more personal, riskier third CD.
    Read full review
  3. AllMusic
    60
    There are no hooks, nothing to suck in the many adults that liked Clarkson's first two records.
    Read full review
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