When Kelly Clarkson married Brandon Blackstock, she not only gained a husband, she also added a very special mother-in-law in Reba McEntire. But the ginger-haired songstress isn't just an in-law -- she's also a mentor to Clarkson.

Before the 'Wrapped in Red' singer was hitched to Blackstock (who is the son of McEntire's husband, Narvel Blackstock), Clarkson was already close friends with the country music icon.

Clarkson and McEntire taped an episode of 'CMT Crossroads' together, re-released Clarkson's smash single 'Because of You' and were obviously good friends, just to name a few of their pre-family happenings.

"It's like your friend is becoming your mother-in-law and your mentor!" Clarkson gushes to CMT with a laugh. "You know, she's a big mentor for me, too, not only musically but professionally."

The feeling is obviously mutual, as McEntire has fawned over her daughter-in-law publicly several times, calling Clarkson her "buddy" and admitting she was thrilled about the new addition to her family.

There's no better mentor for the young songstress than McEntire, who can give her advice ranging from her musical endeavors, marital conflicts and even parenting wisdom.

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