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Now that a new "American Idol" winner has been crowned, why not take a look back at how the show's first winner, Kelly Clarkson, has been doing these past nine years? More than anyone, Kelly Clarkson, who's got a new single coming out in July (FINALLY!), has come to symbolize the show's very American message that any ordinary citizen can become wildly successful, assuming they're really, really talented and they work really, really hard (and maybe do a stint on reality TV).
To honor Kelly Clarkson's nine great years of success, we've put together a gallery of her finest moments. Check out some of our favorites Kelly photos below, and if that's not enough Kelly Clarkson for you, check out BUZZWORTHY'S BEST OF KELLY CLARKSON PHOTO GALLERY for lots more.
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In keeping with her populist image, Kelly showed up to support her hometown's basketball team at the 2004 NBA All-Star game at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. You can take the girl out of Texas...
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It's only fitting that a symbol of the American dream should meet America's leader, President Barack Obama, an amazing American success story in his own right. The above photo was taken in September 2006. Kelly looks incredibly stoked (we would be, too!), while 'Idol' judge Randy Jackson appears a bit shell-shocked (we would be, too!).
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And who could forget the amazing voice that made her a star in the first place? Here's Kelly belting out a song at Sydney, Australia's Entertainment Centre in March 2008.
+ Check out more photos of Kelly's amazing journey to international superstardom at BUZZWORTHY'S BEST OF KELLY CLARKSON PHOTO GALLERY!