Black Eyed Pea helps out Jacko

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Black Eyed Pea helps out Jacko

For the past decade Michael Jackson has been better known for scandals and his extra-curricular activities than his music career. But since he's brought in Black Eyed Peas mastermind will.i.am to help out on his upcoming actor, it's clear Jackson is hoping to remind people that he is foremost a musician.

The hip hop superstar seems committed to helping the 'Thriller' singer regain his King of Pop crown and the pair have been doing "a lot of talking on the phone, a lot of brainstorming". The two have been discussing concepts for the new project and even the possibilities of using the internet to increase Jackson's audience.

Will.i.am, who produced songs for the likes of Fergie, Justin Timberlake, Nas and Snoop Dogg during 2006, revealed his enthusiasm for the Jacko collaboration.

"Man, he still sings like a bird," will.i.am told Billboard.com, revealing that they were focusing on a musical direction for Jackson.

"He could go anywhere. I think we have a real opportunity to do something here," he revealed.

"It's either gonna be really big or nobody's gonna care. Ain't no middle ground on this one."

Jackson previously admitted his admiration for the Black Eyed Pea's work.

"I like what he is doing and thought it would be interesting to collaborate or just see how the chemistry worked," the 'Bad' singer told TV show Access Hollywood in October 2006.

"I think he's doing wonderful, innovative, positive, great music."

Other young stars like Akon and Chris Brown are said to be collaborating with Jackson on the new album, tentatively scheduled for release in late 2007.

Although the former would not disclose details on his involvement when questioned by Billboard last month, Brown has been more forthcoming.

"We got a chance to meet at the World Music Awards and we're talking to his management about when we can set up a date to be working on his album," the young singer told Billboard.

"It would be an honour and a blessing for me to work with my idol. He's one of the reasons I do my music."

Jackson, who made a speech honouring James Brown at the soul veteran's funeral last week, has not released an album since 2001's 'Invincible'.