MTV News Round-Up 15/04/2004

*** Michael Jackson's lawyers have disputed fresh claims of child abuse as a "malicious" smear campaign. The lawyers claim that the new allegations are aimed at disrupting Jackson's right to a fair trial over the existing abuse charges. "This appears to be a malicious attempt to undermine Mr Jackson's right to a fair hearing on the charges presently pending," said lawyers Benjamin Brafman and Mark Geragos. "We have to question the timing and purpose of this 20-year-old false allegation being raised at this time. We believe that this smear campaign is driven by money-hungry lawyers, seeking to capitalise on Mr Jackson's current legal situation."

*** Anastacia is claiming that's Sex and the City breast cancer storyline was inspired by her own battle with the disease. "I was so happy, because I think they got the story from the interview I did on a chat show. I had gone to get a breast reduction when they discovered my cancer. Samantha in the show had hers diagnosed when she went for a breast enlargement... To bring Samantha's character to being bald, to a place of humour with the different wigs, especially with such a sexual character, it was fabulous."

*** After lead singer Matt Belamy suffered a facial injury at the weekend, Muse have announced that they will be continuing with their US tour. Doctors have given Bellamy the all clear after the incident, which led to the band's Atlanta gig being axed mid-way through the show. A subsequent gig in Philadelphia was also cancelled but the band has now confirmed that Bellamy is fit enough to continue.

*** Jamelia is currently in Cuba shooting the video for her upcoming single 'See It In A Boys Eyes', written by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin. MTV had exclusive access to the two-day shoot, which features singer surrounded by soldiers on a military base. Jamelia dons a skin-tight soldier's uniform and is the only female among 50 real-life action men.

*** The Darkness are missing Indian food so much that they are trying to fly their favourite curry chef out to the US to join them on their current tour. "I started fantasising and dreaming about this particular Indian restaurant I used to eat at in North London. We're trying to fly the restaurant boss and his whole team out. We want a huge banquet for all the band and crew. It just seems like the rock 'n' roll thing to do," said Justin.

*** Bjork is recording new songs with Japanese beatbox artist Dokaka for the Icelandic star's upcoming album. The two got together to record the tracks in a New York recording studio for the album, due to be released later this year. Bjork's last album was 2001s 'Verspertine'. She is also planning to release the various albums which featured in her 2003 Live Box set , including 'Debut Live' and 'Post Live'.
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*** Reports are claiming that Spanish singer Enrique Iglesias has upset girlfriend, tennis star Anna Kournikova, by refusing to duet with her on stage. Kournikova had wished to appear on stage with Iglesias at his upcoming gig in Moscow but he believes that the duet would not be right for his image.

*** Black Rebel Motorcycle Club have parted company with their record label. A source close to the band has said that the decision to split with Virgin was a joint one. The band are now in talks with other labels. Apparently their forthcoming tour dates will not be affected.

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