Kanye West to work on Michael Jackson's next album

According to reports, Michael Jackson's first studio album since 2001 is on its way - and  rap superstar Kanye West is behind material for the troubled singer.

Last night the 'touch the sky' singer admitted: “I’m working on stuff for Michael Jackson.

“If I like a person’s outlet or what a person brings to the table, then I’ll speak to them.”

Kanye, who recently trounced rival rapper 50 cent in the album  charts with album 'Graduation' said: "I’ve been in the lab already, you’re already producing for other people and you've still got to promote yourself.”

According to British newspaper The Sun, MJ sent a message to his fan club yesterday teasing them about an imminent album announcement — it will be his first all-new effort since Invincible six years ago. - Since being cleared on child abuse charges, seen his personal finances go into meltdown.

Jackson told fans: “I’ve been really busy lately. Soon I will be sharing exciting and surprising news with you.

“Your continued love and support means so much to me.

“I really love and appreciate you all from the bottom of my heart.”

Previously, 'Black Eyed Peas' singer Will.i.am revealed he hung up the phone.

He said: “Michael called me out of the blue and I just didn’t believe it was him.

“I was like, ‘Come on, who is this, how did you get my number? Stop playing around.’ He said, ‘No it’s really me, it’s Michael.’

“I still didn’t believe it was him and was like, ‘Dude, seriously, I got to go.’” You can’t blame him. It’s a reaction that most of us would share if we heard Jacko on the other end of the line.

The album is expected to be released early next year.