MTV News Round-Up 22/07/2004

*** Brandy's estranged husband has claimed the pair were never legally married. Music producer Robert Smith told a New York radio station that he and the singer pretended to be married to protect her image after she became pregnant. Brandy denied the claims, stating she was "hurt" and "shocked" by Smith's comments and hinting that he was merely seeking publicity. The couple split shortly after the birth of daughter Sy'rai.

*** An American magazine is standing by claims that Michael Jackson is to father quadruplets, despite a denial from the superstar. US Weekly magazine said they were "sticking by the story". The magazine's staff editor, BJ Sigesmund, said: "What I'm here to tell you is that Michael Jackson is indeed going to be... a father again, and not just of one kid, but of quadruplets. He has a woman in Florida who he has been visiting who is pregnant with four of his kids."

*** Embrace have announced details of a UK tour to coincide with the release of new album 'Out Of Nothing', due on September 13. The tour kicks off at Newcastle University on September 29, calling at Glasgow, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield and Bristol, before finishing up at Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone on October 7. The band also play a one-off London gig at the Shepherd's Bush Empire on September 3.

*** Robbie Williams is to release a greatest hits album on October 18. The 'Best Of' album will feature all of Rob's biggest hits, including two new tracks, 'Radio' and 'Miss Understood'. 'Miss Understood' will also feature on the soundtrack to the new Bridget Jones film, 'The Edge Of Reason'.

*** Wyclef Jean has announced he is to perform in his native Haiti later this year to promote peace. The hip-hop star said he hoped two million of the country's eight million people could watch the open-air performance, to take place in December. Wyclef's new album, 'Welcome to Haiti: Kweyole 101', is sung in Haiti's Creole language.

*** A version of The Streets' 'Dry Your Eyes' single that features Chris Martin could have been leaked online. The track was originally recorded with the Coldplay singer on backing vocals, but was scrapped when Martin decided the track was better without his input. "It was leaked on an American radio station - so I don't know if it's got on the internet yet", Mike Skinner said, suggesting that it wouldn't be long before the track would surface online.

DL