AceShowbiz -

It takes few days for Adam Lambert to finally break his silence regarding Clay Aiken's harsh words addressed to him, telling Access Hollywood on Thursday morning, May 28 after performing on the "Today Show" that he thought Clay was in need for publicity. "I don't know Clay", said the "American Idol" season 8 runner-up, adding, "I'm glad he's getting headlines now though, because he wasn't before."

Last Thursday, May 21, Clay posted a message on his official fan site, criticizing Adam's vocal quality and slammed people who supported him during the "American Idol". He wrote, "Now that it's all over, and for the record ... I couldn't be happier about the way AI ended this year. I only turn the show on once a season, and only to see what the set looks like each year. This year, I happened to turn it during the minute that Adam Lambert was singing 'Ring of Fire' and, at that moment, thought my ears would bleed. Contrived, awful, and slightly frightening!"

"I wasn't really a fan and found myself surprised whenever folks told me that they liked him," Clay continued. "Granted, I never saw another performance (and many folks who I trust said that he was great) but I can't imagine I would have enjoyed it. Just not my cup of tea at all." However, the runner-up of "American Idol" season 2 was quick to apologize for his comment, blogging on the next day, "I do apologize to Adam for my colorful (and negative) choice of words. I hope he can forgive me. I imagine he doesn't give a damn! :-) God knows he shouldn't."

Adam, in fact, wasn't bothered by Clay's negative comment. He told Access Hollywood, "If he wants to ride my coattails about it, good for him," before then giving Clay a thumbs-up sign.