Church backtracks on Rolling Stone comments

Church made comments to Rolling Stone, questioning the reality shows. Shelton is one of the judges on The Voice.

"The comment I made to Rolling Stone was part of a larger commentary on these types of reality television shows and the perception they create, not the artists involved with the shows themselves," said Church in issuing an apology.

"The shows make it appear that artists can shortcut their way to success. There are a lot of artists due to their own perseverance that have gone on to be successful after appearing on these shows, but the real obstacles come after the cameras stop rolling. Every artist has to follow up television appearances with dedication towards their craft, but these shows tend to gloss over that part and make it seem like you can be ordained into stardom."

"I have a problem with those perceived shortcuts, not just in the music industry," he continued. "Many people have come to think they can just wake up and have things handed to them. I have a lot of respect for what artists like Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson and my friend Miranda Lambert have gone on to accomplish. This piece was never intended to tear down any individual, and I apologize to anybody I offended in trying to shed light on this issue."

"I am grateful for all of the artists and fans that have supported me along my journey and certainly did not mean for my comments to undermine their talent and achievements," he said.

That came after Church's interview caused a brouhaha. He said, "Honestly, if Blake Shelton and Cee Lo Green f-ing turn around in a red chair, you got a deal?" Church said. "That's crazy. I don't know what would make an artist do that. You're not an artist."

"If I was concerned about my legacy, there's no f-ing way I would ever sit there [and be a reality-show judge]," he told the magazine. "Once your career becomes about something other than the music, then that's what it is. I'll never make that mistake. I don't care if I f-ing starve."

Lambert, who toured with Church two years ago, made clear she was not happy. "Thanks Eric Church for saying I'm not a real artist. Or @kelly_clarkson, @carrieunderwood & @KeithUrban. Your welcome for the tour in 2010." Lambert herself was in a reality show, coming in third on the first season of Nashville Star. Other country acts on reality shows included Churis Young on Nashville Star, Scotty McCreery, Kellie Pickler, Lauren Alaina, Josh Gracin and Bucky Covington on American Idol.

Shelton tweeted, "I wish I misunderstood this..."