MTV News Round-Up 03/09/2004

*** Outkast's Andre 3000 has cleared up ongoing rumours suggesting he supports George Bush and is about to perform at the Republican National Convention in New York. The word has been spread after Andre was spotted at the convention. "I was there to finish up my documentary on youth and voting", explained Andre.

*** Michael Jackson is alleged to have paid $2 million to an employee's 12-year-old son in 1990, to avoid child molestation charges. US reports suggest that retired Santa Barbara County Sheriff Jim Thomas, now an NBC news analyst, came across the accusation while investigating the claims of another boy in 1993.

*** Busted's James Bourne has collapsed with heat stroke, according to tabloid reports. James apparently became badly dehydrated after the air conditioning unit packed in on the boyband's tour bus, and an emergency doctor was called in to observe him. Busted's US tour is being filmed for the MTV reality show, 'America Or Busted'.

*** Delta Goodrem and ex-Westlife member Brian McFadden have finally recorded their much-anticipated duet. The collaboration was postponed as Delta had collapsed after performing in Athens, but finally came to fruition last week. "It's a rocky ballad", said Brian of the song, which is likely to appear on both of their new albums.

*** White Slave is the chosen name for Justin Hawkins' new supergroup. The Darkness' frontman has recently confirmed the working title for the band, which he'll form with Tim Wheeler from Ash and Har Mar Superstar. Ash bassist Mark Hamilton adds more details: "They're still trying to find a drummer, as well as a bass player".

*** Big Brother's big winner Nadia Almada is to embark on a pop career. The 27-year-old Portuguese is hoping to conquer the charts and is currently working on her debut single. Danny Kirsch, the man behind Charlotte Church's 'The Opera Song', and Stuart Langelaan, who's remixed tracks by the Pet Shop Boys are producing the track.

*** Madonna fans can now enjoy a Madonna beer. Manchester brewers JW Lees have launched Material Girl Ale, with a similar design to Madonna's 'Immaculate Collection' album. A limited edition of 300 bottles have been released, with an alcohol content of 7.5% and a sample crate was sent to Madonna at her Manchester tour-date.

HK