Kelly Clarkson’s Hit Song Was Inspired By Brandon Blackstock

Kelly Clarkson’s song “Don’t Rush” was inspired by her relationship with her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock.

She spoke about it in an interview with ABC News Radio in 2012.

“I’m in a relationship and super happy,” she said. “And I don’t think I would have been able to sing this song eight months ago.”

“Love should be celebrated, and this is a great description of where I’m at in my life,” she added. “This is a couple’s skate, not an all-skate song.”

According to Taste of Country, “Don’t Rush” reached No. 23 on Billboard‘s Hot Country Songs chart and along with earning a Grammy nomination for Best Country Duo/Group Performance at the 56th Grammy Awards.

As for Clarkson and Blackstock, the two started dating in 2012 and got engaged shortly after. They married in October 2013 and revealed that they are expecting their first child together just a month later. In August 2015, they announced that they were expecting their second child. In June 2020, Clarkson filed for divorce from Brandon, which was officially finalized in March 2022.

Brandon Blackstock’s Family Releases Statement After News of His Passing

Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Blackstock passed away at the age of 48, his family announced in a statement to PEOPLE.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” a rep for the family said. “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”

Kelly Clarkson Postponed Her Las Vegas Residency To Be By His Side

Kelly Clarkson shared a message to her fans on social media on April 7, explaining why she had to postpone her Las Vegas residency.

“Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas,” she wrote. “While I normally keep my personal life private, this past year, my children’s father has been ill and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them.”
 
“I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding,” she concluded.