Simpson struggles at Van Andel

Though Jessica Simpson was the opening act for Rascal Flatts Thursday night at the Van Andel Arena, it was her performance that has everyone talking.

Or her lack of performance.

There are reports from people in the crowd that the pop star-gone-country-girl was on the verge of a breakdown, crying during her set, even allowing the crowd to sing her lyrics while she drank water and mouthed apologies into the microphone.

The Grand Rapids Press' John Gonzalez reported that Simpson talked about missing her boyfriend, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, and was looking forward to seeing him Friday.

Clear Channel Radio's Doug Montgomery told 24 Hour News 8 he spoke with Simpson just before she went onstage. Montgomery said Simpson was sober and acting fine. He thinks the crowd didn't accept her as a legitimate country act and that some hecklers may have gotten to her.

A spokesperson for the singer e-mailed Montgomery and said she was not feeling well, her throat was bothering her and she is a perfectionist.

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On the Net:

Jessica Simpson footage at Van Andel from radaronline.com

Newsradio Wood 1300 video