Kelly Clarkson was crowned the very first winner of "American Idol" 20 years ago, and the singer took to Instagram to thank her fans and reflect on her success following the show.
"That moment was the door that opened up so much access, opportunity, and creative partnerships that I will be grateful for all of my days," the 40-year-old singer wrote.
Clarkson was 20 years old when she joined the hit show, "American Idol." She started singing at a young age and decided to pursue a career in the music industry in Los Angeles.
And while she had struggled to start her music career in the beginning, Clarkson soon found herself winning against Justin Guarini, the first runner-up, by 58%.
This win brought her to RCA Records, 19 Recordings, and S Records, and it launched her successful career as a singer.
"The family and friendships I have created over these 20 years on music and TV are priceless to me," she wrote.
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Breaking Away
In 2004, Clarkson released her highly acclaimed album "Breakaway," as she attempted to deviate from the "American Idol" image she had. She switched up her musical direction, going for a rock genre for her second studio album.
This proved to be a good choice, as "Breakaway" received numerous accolades and recognitions. It won Best Pop Vocal Album at the Grammy Awards, and "Since U Been Gone" earned her Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
As of this writing, "Breakaway" is still her best-performing album, and remains an icon among audiences and fans.
Aside from her music career, Clarkson also appeared on television through the hit singing competition show "The Voice," and started her own talk show "The Kelly Clarkson Show."
Both shows are massive hits, with "The Kelly Clarkson Show" seeing four seasons.
Despite all this, the "Because of You" singer is most proud of the people who have stood by her side during her tough times.
"We only get so many trips around the sun, and while I am proud and feel abundantly blessed of all the successes and failures that I have learned from,"
"I am most proud and grateful for those friends that have become family, and for their arms that have held me when I needed it and their hearts that listened to me when I felt lost," she wrote.
"Without them, I would not be where I am. I would probably not be here at all."
This perhaps is in reference to recent news of her divorce from Brandon Blackstock. The split reached a settlement, as she gained primary custody of her children, reports say.
'Thankful'
Clarkson has never ceased to be grateful for the support of fans, friends, and family. Her very first studio album was entitled "Thankful," and up to this day, she remains thankful.
Towards the end of her note, the "My Life Would Suck Without You" singer addressed her long-time fans directly, writing "thank you so much to every single person who voted 20 years ago! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"
"I hope all of you have people in your lives that fill you with laughter, and hope, and happiness [sic]."
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