Introduction
Celebrated vocalists Josh Groban and Kelly Clarkson delivered an unforgettable Broadway duet that had everyone in the audience spellbound. Their collaboration took place during Groban’s Stages Live event—an enchanting PBS special showcasing some of musical theatre’s most beloved numbers. Together, they brought to life the timeless “All I Ask of You” from The Phantom of the Opera, their voices intertwining in perfect harmony.
Groban’s passion for the stage has been longstanding, and his album Stages was born from a lifelong dream to record these iconic songs. “Musical theatre has always held a special place in my heart,” he shared. “These are tracks I’ve yearned to perform ever since my high school days.” Among the album’s highlights is his rendition of “All I Ask of You,” and for such a poignant love duet, Groban knew he needed an equally extraordinary partner—enter Kelly Clarkson.
Fans tuning in to Stages Live were treated to an insider’s look at Groban’s creative process. He explained, “When we set out to record this song, I knew it had to be captured in a very, very special way—and it required a very special singer…” At that moment, Clarkson made her entrance in a stunning black gown, greeted by thunderous applause. A fellow Broadway enthusiast, she revealed that The Phantom of the Opera was the first show she ever experienced live.
In their duet, the characters Raoul and Christine Daaé express a profound, heartfelt love, and Clarkson admitted to the audience, “I’ve always dreamed of playing Christine, and Josh made that dream come true tonight.” Groban’s rich, resonant tone immediately won over the crowd, smiles lighting up faces throughout the theatre. Then Clarkson’s crystalline voice soared, sending shivers through the audience and showcasing her own flair for musical theatre.
Both artists boast impressive careers as American vocal powerhouses. Clarkson first rose to fame by winning the inaugural American Idol in 2002, earning a deal with RCA Records and embarking on a chart-topping journey. Groban, meanwhile, exploded onto the scene with four consecutive platinum albums and by 2007 was the top-selling artist in the United States, moving over 22.3 million records. Today, his sales exceed 25 million worldwide—proof of his enduring appeal.