Mudvayne and HellYeah frontman Chad Gray has hit fans with an unexpected haymaker in the form an ode to one of pop music's most successful songstresses.
Retrofitting a heavy rock variation to the Christina Aguilera anthem, "BEAUTIFUL," Gray offers his homage both to Aguilera and songwriter Linda Perry and their enduring message of self-love and resilience. Daring to bolster the ageless power pop ballad with hard rock style points, the song is a testament to Gray's versatility and range.
Gray explained, "Although I didn't write 'Beautiful,' I am passionate about its meaning so I wanted to put my own spin on it. I know no one had me covering a pop song in 2026 on their bingo card, but here we are. I changed the bridge, got the scream, big drums, and big guitars in there. Maybe some of the metal family can hear it and find their own self-love because we are beautiful no matter what they say."
Gray further explained the personal connection he has with the original that compelled him to explore his own version. "The song 'Beautiful' is a song about self-acceptance, finding your inner beauty, and overcoming insecurity. I have struggled my entire life with all of those things so when I heard it years ago, it spoke to me, I felt what [songwriter] Linda Perry was trying to say with the lyrics. As I have found sobriety and worked on myself, I have found even more of a connection with this song. My songwriting has has always been driven by my experiences and feelings, from dark to light from helpless to hopeful."
Earning a seal of approval from the song's original architect in Linda Perry, the venerated songwriter offered her praise of gray's spin on the classic. Chad Gray's heavy version of 'Beautiful' is a must-listen. It made me smile. His passionate and fearless vocals get a thumbs up from this listener."
The release of Gray's take on "BEAUTIFUL" arrives as live dates for Gray continue to ramp up. To close out the year, Gray will travel to Australia for appearances at Good Things Festival in Flemington, Sydney and Brisbane. Gray has also been confirmed to make appearances at both Sonic Temple and Welcome to Rockville next spring. See a list of confirmed dates - HERE
The new single from Chad Gray, "BEAUTIFUL," is now available - HERE
