What makes The Trouble with Love Is by Kelly Clarkson notable?

The song reached number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a notable entry in Clarkson's discography, highlighting her vocal prowess and emotional depth. It was also featured in the soundtrack for the film 'Love Actually', contributing to its cultural resonance. Released on December 1, 2003, 'The Trouble with Love Is' came during Kelly Clarkson's rise following her debut album 'Thankful'. This single showcased her evolution as an artist, transitioning from the initial success of her American Idol victory to a more mature sound as she solidified her place in pop music.

How many songs are on The Trouble with Love Is?

The Trouble with Love Is has 3 tracks, running approximately 18 minutes.

The Trouble with Love Is

Kelly Clarkson · 2003

18 min · 3 tracks · contemporary R&B

A heartfelt exploration of love's complexities wrapped in soaring pop melodies and R&B grooves.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Trouble With Love Is (album version) — This track serves as the album's title piece, encapsulating the emotional turmoil of love through Clarkson’s powerful vocals and relatable lyrics.
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The Trouble With Love Is (MaUVe Classic vocal) — The extended vocal version allows listeners to experience a deeper connection with the emotional nuances of the song, showcasing Clarkson's range and interpretive skill.
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The Trouble With Love Is (Bimbo James dub) — This remix offers a fresh take on the original, blending dance elements with Clarkson's signature sound, appealing to club-goers while maintaining the song's core message.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases solid songwriting and production but lacks cohesion due to its remix nature.

What we noticed

The lead track features a traditional verse-chorus structure, with the chorus emphasizing emotional peaks through vocal layering.
The second track presents a reimagined version that alters the arrangement while maintaining the original melody.
The third track is a dub remix that strips down the instrumentation, focusing on rhythm and effects rather than vocals.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single marked Clarkson's evolution and wider recognition following her debut.
Themes: emotional heartache· complex love dynamics· post-'American Idol' transition
Career context: Released on December 1, 2003, 'The Trouble with Love Is' came during Kelly Clarkson's rise following her debut album 'Thankful'. This single showcased her evolution as an artist, transitioning from the initial success of her American Idol victory to a more mature sound as she solidified her place in pop music.
Stylistic neighbors: Adele· Jessie J· Beyoncé