Kelly Clarkson hooks up with NASCAR

Joining a list of artists that includes LeAnn Rimes, Sheryl Crow, Jewel, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Lenny Kravitz, Grammy winner and former American Idol queen Kelly Clarkson has signed a deal to form the biggest-ever partnership between NASCAR and a musical artist. Vegas oddsmakers have not yet announced the Over/Under for Kelly appearances on The NASCAR Channel SPEED TV this season, but you can pencil us right in for the "over" because it is the lock of the year.

You'll also be shocked...shocked to learn that Kelly says she's a big NASCAR fan and looks forward to hanging out with the whole ever-lovin' NASCAR community. NASCAR (obviously) feels that this relationship will develop into something big. Welcome to the NASCAR/Kelly mutual admiration society.

Her NASCAR debut will be as the headliner in the "Tribute to America" concert that'll air prior to next month's season-opening Daytona 500. During the show, NASCAR will shoot a TV commercial that spotlights Kelly as she sings a new song off her upcoming CD. Finally, she'll be the official spokesperson for the fourth annual NASCAR Day this May, during which the organization raises money for charitable causes.

[Source: Yahoo News]