Another KPop Demon Hunters Song Now Has a Live Version—But It’s Not by Huntr/x

As we move into 2026, the cultural footprint of KPop Demon Hunters remains as prominent as ever. The powerhouse vocalists behind the film’s animated sensation Huntr/x—Ejae (Rumi), Audrey Nuna (Mira), and Rei Ami (Zoey)—have been making waves with high-profile appearances on Jimmy Kimmel and during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Despite these grand spectacles, the fanbase has been vocal about wanting to hear live versions of the soundtrack’s deeper cuts, eager to move beyond the ubiquitous “Golden.”

That anticipation has finally been met with a viral new performance that is currently dominating social media feeds. However, there is a distinct catch: the voices behind this latest rendition aren’t the members of Huntr/x.

Music enthusiasts know that a song undergoes a transformative experience once Kelly Clarkson takes the helm. Often described as “the Kelly Clarkson Effect,” her Kellyoke segment on The Kelly Clarkson Show has become a legendary arena for breathing new life into popular hits.

Given that the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack has spent the last year reigning over Spotify and the Billboard charts, it was inevitable that “Golden” would be a top request. Surprisingly, the calls for a Clarkson cover came not just from fans, but from Arden Cho (the voice of Rumi) and the official Huntr/x accounts. It is a rare honor to have the original creators and cast members championing a cover of their own work.

However, Clarkson decided to pivot from the expected path. Rather than performing the requested lead single, she surprised viewers by choosing to showcase the soulful “What It Sounds Like” instead.

While “What It Sounds Like” may lack the aggressive energy of tracks like “Takedown” or “How It’s Done,” it is widely considered the emotional core of the film. Clarkson’s delivery is nothing short of hypnotic, starting with a tender vulnerability before building into a powerful climax after the first chorus.

Though it may not be the specific Huntr/x live performance some were holding out for, Clarkson’s rendition stands as a masterful tribute. For anyone looking for a fresh perspective on a beloved soundtrack, this cover is an essential listen.

Source: Polygon