Aretha Franklin has commented on Beyoncé's alleged lip-synching of the American national anthem.

The former Destiny's Child star performed 'Star Spangled Banner' on Monday (January 21) at US President Barack Obama's inauguration.

However, doubts were raised over her singing after a spokesperson for her Marine band accompaniment revealed that she wanted to use a pre-recorded track at the last minute.

Speaking to ABC News, Aretha Franklin - who performed at Obama's first inauguration in 2009 - said Beyoncé's performance was "beautiful" and claimed that it was probably too cold to sing well live. She said:

"When I heard the news this evening that she was pre-recorded I really laughed. I thought it was funny because the weather down there was about 46 or 44 degrees and for most singers that is just not good singing weather."

The veteran star continued: "When I heard that I just really cracked up. I thought it was really funny, but she did a beautiful job with the pre-record...next time I'll probably do the same."

It is reported, however, that fellow inauguration star Kelly Clarkson did indeed sing live.