Aiken apologises for Lambert remark

Clay Aiken has apologised for remarks he made about American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert.

The 'Invisible' singer had claimed on his website that Lambert’s vocals made his "ears bleed".

However, he wrote last night: "I obviously meant it as a colourful statement to imply that I did not enjoy what I heard. Any performer hopes that their music will appeal to all people, but no singer realistically expects it to."

Aiken said that his opinion was misinterpreted by fellow bloggers who "dislike" him before going on to issue a formal apology to the Idol contestant, E! reports.

He added: "The only person I would really dream of apologising to is Adam. And the irony is, if he's smart he couldn't give a crap what I think. I do apologise to Adam for my colourful (and negative) choice of words.

"I hope he can forgive me. I imagine he doesn't give a damn!"

The Broadway star finished second to Ruben Studdard in the reality show's second season.