Pop superstar and budding country performer Kelly Clarkson performed her new single 'Don't Rush' at the 2013 Academy of Country Music awards Sunday night (April 7), delivering a strong rendition despite the absence of her collaborator Vince Gill.

Trisha Yearwood came out to introduce Clarkson, who came to prominence by winning the first season of 'American Idol.' Clarkson gave a strong, confident performance of the song, which is essentially her debut country single. The soulful country track is a great fit for her understated, sexy-but-not-blatant vocal performance.

Gill was curiously absent, but the song still came off surprisingly well, demonstrating that true talent will have its way, no matter the venue.

Watch Kelly Clarkson Sing 'Don't Rush' at the 2013 ACM Awards 

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