PASADENA, Calif. -- Singer Kelly Clarkson says her songs can't be used by new contestants on the television show "American Idol."

Clarkson was the winner on the first season of the hit show in 2002.

A spokesman for Clarkson insisted that her decision to block "Idol" from using her songs is nothing personal, but show judge Simon Cowell said by ignoring the show -- Clarkson is "ignoring the audience" who put her there.

Clarkson immediately scored a chart-topping hit with "A Moment Like This" after she won the competition in 2002, and over the past year, her hit "Since U Been Gone" has earned massive sales and critical respect.

Her latest album, "Breakaway" earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album.

"American Idol" must obtain permission from owners of song licenses before the music can be used on the show.

The show isn't alone in its failed bid to obtain the use of the singer's songs.

A spokesman for Sony BMG said Clarkson isn't allowing any of her songs to be licensed for other uses.

This isn't the first wedge Clarkson has driven between herself and "American Idol."

Prior to "Breakaway," Clarkson fired Simon Fuller, the show's creator, as her manager.