The ongoing saga of Ashlee Simpson took an interesting turn today as her father/manager Joe Simpson weighed in on the faux-controversy. Apparently Ashlee suffers from chronic acid-reflux disease - or lack of talent, as it's known colloquially. Joe Simpson claimed in an interview with KIIS FM's Ryan Seacrest that it was his idea to use the backing track after Ashlee's vocal chords swole up. Insiders, however, claim the real reason he used the track was because he suddenly realized that his daughter has no musical skills whatsoever.

Joe Simpson explained that Ashlee "has a backing track that she pushes so you don't have to hear her croak through a song on national television. No one wants to hear that." If that's not a vote of confidence, I don't know what is. Don't worry Ashlee. We know you want a career in music. I suggest taking up the cowbell or humming (very quietly).

Curious readers can find the whole article here.

UPDATE - J-Unit Adds: Those of you who missed seeing Ashlee mess up the first time can check her out tonight as she is scheduled to appear on NBC's Radio Music Awards taking place in Las Vegas. The show airs 9PM Eastern Time. If she actually shows up to sing (or lip-synch), it is sure to be an exciting event. Actually, I am sure the show will suck whether she goes on or not, but isn't it fun to watch a career spiral into oblivion?