Elton calls Kings of Leon assholes for snubbing Glee

Elton John has waded into the row between Glee and the Kings of Leon, calling the rock band "assholes" for refusing to allow the TV show to play their music.

The flamboyant singer made the comment on last night's Late Night after being asked how he felt about American Idol contestants singing his own songs.

Elton told interviewer Jimmy Fallon that he takes the use of his songs on such TV shows as a compliment. He went on to express his disgust towards other stars who are precious about their music, specifically mentioning the recent Kings of Leon vs Glee rumble.

"There's a big debate going on about the Glee thing at the moment and a lot of bands saying 'we don't want our stuff on Glee.' Like, lighten up, you assholes... this is a compliment and it sends a positive message out," said Elton.

Glee has become a money-spinner thanks to its tactic of releasing cover versions of songs that appear on the show as downloads. The bitch-fight with the Kings of Leon began in January when the show's co-creator Ryan Murphy called the band "self-centered" in an interview with the Hollywood Reporter after they refused to allow the US series to use their hit 'Use somebody'.

Kings of Leon hit back in a statement, saying: "This was never meant as a slap in the face to Glee or to music education or to fans of the show. We're not sure where the anger is coming from."

Unfortunately, drummer Nathan Followill added his unofficial two-penneth via Twitter, saying: "Dear Ryan Murphy, let it go. See a therapist, get a manicure, buy a new bra. Zip your lip and focus on educating 7 yr olds how to say fuck." He apologised for the remarks within hours after being accused of homophobia.

Gwyneth Paltrow, Glee guest star, reportedly attempted to cool the situation in February, encouraging both parties to reconcile via that well-known peace negotiators' tool, the text message, which was probably about as effective as Elton John's intervention.  ·