An embarrassed Ashlee Simpson was caught lip-sinking on Saturday Night Live this weekend.

The pop singer performed “Pieces of Me,” but when she came out to perform her second song, a track featuring her vocals was played and the microphone was far from her mouth. The track was “Pieces of Me” again, and the band adjusted by playing along. Simpson was shocked, and did a jig of sorts, presumably waiting for the right track to begin.

After about 30 seconds, she left the stage, as confused as her smirk-wearing band members.

Sunday she began feeling the backlash. Reports around the continent labelled her as a phoney.

Monday she had some explaining to do.

“Just like any artist in America, she has a backing track that she pushes so you don’t have to hear her croak through a song on national television,” her manager and father, Joe Simpson, told Ryan Seacrest on Los Angeles’ KIIS FM, adding that she was suffering from acid reflux disease.

Acid reflux disease is most commonly associated with heartburn, but it can cause wheezing and a sore throat. Simpson did not say what symptoms his daughter is suffering from.

Ashlee was scheduled to perform live at the Radio Music Awards Monday night. NBC wrote on its web site that “Ashlee Simpson performs live” on the show, alluding to her SNL performance, which was also broadcast on NBC.






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