No one hooked up with pop star Kelly Clarkson Sunday night at the State Fair. Two hours before showtime, the first "American Idol" pulled out of her show because of vocal issues.
"She did her sound check and then saw a medical doctor," said fair entertainment director Renee Pearson. "Then her tour manager and I had a discussion. Ultimately, it was her decision."
Nearly 8,000 tickets had been sold. They will be refunded, and opening act Eric Hutchinson, known for the hit "Rock and Roll," performed a free show for ticket holders.
After a slow-selling third album in 2007, Clarkson, 27, was on the rebound, scoring two huge hits, "My Life Would Suck Without You" and "I Do Not Hook Up," from this year's album, "All I Ever Wanted." After winning the first season of "American Idol," Clarkson recorded two smash albums, "Thankful" and "Breakaway," but then stumbled with "My December."
Because the State Fair grandstand is booked through Labor Day, a makeup date isn't possible. Said Pearson: "I'd love to have her back next year." Those discussions will take place at a later date.
Clarkson's next scheduled concert is Sept. 3 in Allentown, Pa., at that state's largest fair.
JON BREAM
