Clarkson protects music from Idol

Singer Kelly Clarkson, who vaulted to fame as the first American Idol winner in 2002, is not letting any of her songs be used by new contestants on the television show.

A spokesman for Clarkson insisted it's nothing personal, but the stance prompted a public scolding from Idol judge Simon Cowell.

"I think that by ignoring the show you're ignoring the audience who put you there," Cowell said.

The show must obtain permission from owners of song licences before it uses their music. Clarkson is not allowing any of her songs to be licensed for other uses, said a spokesman for Sony BMG, saying it had nothing to do with Idol.