Kelly Clarkson follows 'Ellen' performance with 'American Idol'

Recently, the first ever American Idol announced on Facebook that her fifth studio album will hit stores in September.  Following the announcement that put off the initially planned spring launch of the album until September, the singer appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show to perform her Greatest Hits, which 'Miss Independent,' 'Walk Away,' and 'Since U Been Gone' Wednesday.

Now, reports have emerged that Clarkson is set to go back once again to the stage where it all began for her. Los Angeles Times reported that the original Idol will perform on this Thursday's show, during which she would sing a duet of 'Don't You Wanna Stay' with Jason Aldean.

Adding another element to the anticipation is the fact that R&B singer Rihanna is also expected to take stage alongside Kelly Clarkson, according to TVGuide.com.

In the coming week, the top 8 of the current Idol season are slated to perform songs from the movies.

Clarkson's Thursday Idol appearance follows her participation in last season's farewell performance to judge Simon Cowell.