Chad Gray has released a video for his solo version of Christina Aguilera’s “Beautiful,” with a heavier arrangement built around a song he has connected with for years. The Mudvayne and HELLYEAH vocalist premiered the clip through Revolver on October 27, 2026.
Written by Linda Perry and recorded for Aguilera’s 2002 album Stripped, “Beautiful” addresses the difficulty of accepting yourself. Gray explained that its words resonated with his own insecurities, and that sobriety strengthened that connection. For his recording, he changed the bridge and added screamed vocals, heavier guitars and drums.
Choosing a cover for personal reasons has precedent in Gray’s solo work. He released “Always on My Mind” on March 12, 2021, after recording it for his wedding to SiriusXM host Shannon Gunz. Working with producer Kevin Churko at the Hideout Recording Studio in Las Vegas, Gray explored a different approach to singing from the one fans knew through his bands. The accompanying video included footage from the wedding.
That recording began as something for the couple themselves. Gray explained at the time that he eventually wanted to share it with listeners because he regarded them as family. “Beautiful” continues that willingness to let a song someone else wrote express something personal, with Gray hoping his interpretation will help metal fans accept themselves.
Perry has already offered her response to the cover. “It made me smile,” she said, praising Gray’s commitment to the performance.
