She has one of the greatest voices in pop music–competing with the likes of vocal powerhouses such as her contemporaries Joss Stone, and Christina Aguilera, as well as music icons like Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston.

The reason Clarkson is so successful in her craft, unlike her succeeding Idol winners, is because not only does she posess great talent, but she strives for excellence in her music. She wants to be more than just a pop star with a good career. Right now, her music is only good, but over time she will evolve into a full-fledged musician, and she will surprise the likes of everyone.

Her newest album Breakaway shows her evolution since Thankful–vocally, stylistically, and emotionally–and her sales so far show her fan base is as loyal as ever.

The sound on this album, though not completely original, has much evolved from the more commercial (though solid) sound on Thankful. It’s more of a rockier, grittier, harder sound–though still pop. Clarkson finds a great balance between her soulful vocals and the Avril Lavigne-Sheryl Crow-esque songs on this album.

“Since U Been Gone” is one of the best cuts on the album: a high energy, vocally powered, pop/rock jam with a hook that is infectious. Perfect choice for a first single.

My favorites from the album are “Where Is Your Heart“, and “Because of You“, the ballads. Clarkson’s vocal prowess really does not get the acclaim it deserves. She commands these two songs like a seasoned pro and directs herself in her songs the way Steven Spielberg said Barbra Streisand directs herself in her songs as if she’s directing an actor in a movie. Clarkson’s ballads have a beginning, middle, and end, and they take you for a 4 minute emotional ride that is thrilling for anyone 10 to 45. This woman has much better to come.