Lauren Alaina cancels weekend gigs for vocal rest

NEW YORK (AP) - Lauren Alaina is canceling her shows this weekend because of vocal issues.

Alaina said in a statement Thursday that her doctor is putting her on "vocal rest." She was set to open for country duo Sugarland on Friday in Cincinnati, Ohio, and on Saturday in Clarkston, Mich. The statement provided no other specifics about the condition of her voice.

Alaina was the runner-up on "American Idol" last year. For the show's finale, she blew out one of her vocal cords during rehearsals.

The 17-year-old said she is "sad" to miss the shows this weekend and is sorry to disappoint her fans. She said she would make it up to them and would be "back soon."

Live Nation said singer Vonda Shepard will fill in for Alaina.