The reigning Kings
of Pop and Hip-Pop have joined forces. Michael
Jackson and will.I.Am teamed up in Ireland recently in an apparent effort to resuscitate
Jackson’s musical career.A
longtime Jackson fan, will.I.am said he was shocked when he received a call from
Jackson."I
was like ‘No, stop playing around,’" Will.I.am told Access Hollywood. "I
didn’t know it [was Michael Jackson]. I thought somebody was joking."Jackson
is presently holed up in an Irish Estate outside of Dublin, called the Stone Manor,
where he is recording the album."I
think he’s doing wonderful, innovative, positive music," will.I.am continued.
"I thought it would be interesting to collaborate to see how the chemistry
works."Jackson
has already chosen a single, which will.I.am claims will restore the 48-year-old
pop star’s relevance. "It’s a club banger…that’s what they call that one,"
will.I.am said.In
related news, Jackson will give a rare performance of his hit song "Thriller"
during the World Music Awards Nov. 15 in London. The
singer will be awarded with a Diamond Award for selling over 100 million albums.Thriller
has sold over 50 million copies worldwide and contains several hit singles, including
"PYT," "Beat It" and "Billie Jean."