Kelly Clarkson apologizes to Clive Davis

NEW YORK - Kelly Clarkson has done a lot of talking about reports of a feud with Clive Davis over the direction of her new album, "My December." Now, she's apologizing.

"I want to set the record straight on this by saying that I want my band, my advisors, those close to me and my record label to be one big, tightly knit family," the 25-year-old singer said Monday in a statement posted on her Web site.

"Like any family we will disagree and argue sometimes but, in the end, it's respect and admiration that will keep us together."

For months, Clarkson has weathered — and also fueled in candid interviews — reports of a battle with Davis, who oversees her record label, RCA, over the direction of "My December," which was released June 26.

"A lot has been made in the press about my relationship with Clive," the former "American Idol" said in her statement. "Much of this has been blown way out of proportion and out of context."

"Contrary to recent characterizations in the press, I'm well aware that Clive is one of the great record men of all time," her statement said. "He has been a key advisor and has been an important force in my success to date."

Clarkson, who co-wrote every track on "My December," gives Davis kudos for releasing the album when he wasn't obligated to do so.

"I really regret how this has turned out and I apologize to those whom I have done disservice," she said. "I would never intentionally hurt anyone. I love music, and I love the people I am blessed to work with."

A spokesperson for Davis didn't immediately respond Monday to an e-mail from The Associated Press seeking comment.

"My December" — which has yet to produce a hit single — is No. 5 on Billboard's 200 top albums chart; it arrived at No. 2.

Clarkson's first album, 2003's "Thankful," sold over more than 1 million copies. The multiplatinum "Breakaway," released in 2004, cemented her status as a bona fide artist outside of "Idol" with hits including "Since U Been Gone" and "Because of You."

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On the Net:

Kelly Clarkson:

http://www.kellyclarkson.com

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