A Song Born from Love — and Now Remembered in Loss
When Kelly Clarkson released her holiday album Wrapped in Red in 2013, it was filled with festive cheer, classic covers, and heartfelt ballads.
Among the original tracks, one stood out for its deeply personal message: “Winter Dreams (Brandon’s Song).” At the time, it was a touching tribute to her then-fiancé, Brandon Blackstock.
Now, over a decade later, and following Brandon’s tragic passing in 2025, that song has taken on an even more profound meaning for fans who remember their love story and the emotions that surrounded their first Christmas together.
A Personal Song Inspired by Their Holiday Love
Back in 2013, Kelly Clarkson was engaged to Brandon Blackstock. Their romance had blossomed quickly, capturing public attention and fans’ hearts. Kelly, known for her emotional transparency, wrote “Winter Dreams” as a musical love letter to Brandon—a celebration of their first Christmas as a couple.
“It’s about that feeling when you finally find someone who makes the holidays feel truly magical,” Kelly shared in a 2013 interview. The song was meant to reflect hope, warmth, and the joy of new love—a perfect holiday ode.
Lyrics That Now Take on a New, Heartfelt Meaning
Originally an expression of joy and new beginnings, the lyrics of “Winter Dreams” now carry a bittersweet weight following Brandon’s passing from cancer at age 48.
“I never dreamed I’d find someone like you / Warm like the sun, melt my winter blues…”
What was once a romantic expression of love has become a poignant reminder of what once was. Kelly’s songwriting, deeply personal and authentic, connects fans to a moment in her life that is now marked by both love and loss.
A Love Story That Changed Over Time
Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock married in 2013 and welcomed two children: River Rose and Remington Alexander. Their marriage faced its challenges, and they eventually divorced in 2022.
Despite the separation, they remained dedicated to co-parenting and family. In August 2025, Kelly paused her major commitments to be with her children during Brandon’s final days. Just days later, news broke of his passing after a private battle with cancer.
Today, “Winter Dreams” is no longer just a holiday love song; it’s a heartfelt memorial to a relationship that profoundly impacted Kelly’s life and career.
Wrapped in Red: A Classic Holiday Album
Kelly’s first holiday album, Wrapped in Red, debuted in October 2013 and was met with both critical and commercial success. It included beloved Christmas covers and original songs like:
- “Underneath the Tree”
- “Wrapped in Red”
- “Winter Dreams (Brandon’s Song)”
Critics praised “Winter Dreams” for its dreamy production and soaring vocals. Few knew at the time how deeply personal the song was—until Kelly shared that it was dedicated to Brandon.
Fans Revisit the Song with a New Perspective
Since Brandon’s passing, listeners have embraced “Winter Dreams” with renewed emotion. The song has resurfaced on social media, described by many as “painfully beautiful” and “a love letter that now feels like a farewell.”
Comments include:
“This song hits differently now… you can feel the love in every note.”
“She captured a moment of pure joy—and now it brings tears.”
“It’s both comforting and heartbreaking.”
A Song About Love, Loss, and Legacy
What once was a joyful celebration of winter romance now serves as a reminder of love’s enduring power and the heartbreak of loss. “Winter Dreams” stands as a musical time capsule—preserving a moment in Kelly Clarkson’s life that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
As we honor Brandon’s memory, this song remains more than just a Christmas tune; it’s a testament to love’s ability to inspire, comfort, and endure through life’s most challenging moments.
Listen to Kelly Clarkson’s “Winter Dreams (Brandon’s Song).”:
