35-year-old Kelly Clarkson got her start when she beat out Justin Guarini to win the first season of American Idol back in 2002. But in an exclusive interview with Life & Style, Kelly reveals why she is so thrilled to be joining Alicia Keys, Blake Shelton and Adam Levine on its competition, The Voice.

Being a coach on The Voice, rather than a judge on Idol, makes all the difference, she notes: “I was so young when I started [on Idol]. I would’ve loved to have had someone who was looking out for me rather than having to make money off of me. I would’ve loved to have somebody in my corner like that — so it’s nice to be that person for someone.”

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The upcoming season of The Voice premieres on Feb. 26, she says. “We started shooting, and it’s been one of the best experiences ever.” She adds that she is holding her own against fellow coaches Adam and Blake. “I’m a whole ‘lotta woman!” she says.

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