Rahman won't attend Jackson tribute concert

Music maestro A.R. Rahman will not be attending the Michael Jackson tribute concert in Chennai due to a Hollywood project.

"The Chennai concert, which is a tribute to Michael Jackson organized by my friend, will be a great show. However, unfortunately I won't be present there since I have to complete my commitments and resume work on my Hollywood project 'Couples Retreat'," Rahman told reporters here.

u00a0

The proceeds of the show, "Heal the World" organised by music director Praveen Mani, will go to autism awareness programmes and other allied projects.

The show, to be held on the King of Pop's birthday Aug 29, is expected to feature a multitude of prominent playback singers.

Recalling his association with Jackson, Rahman said: "When I met Jackson, he had asked me to compose a song like 'We are the world'. But sadly we lost him too early."

The 43-year-old who has won thirteen Filmfare Awards, four National Film Awards, a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe and two Academy Awards was in the capital for a concert in association with Phat Phish Records, to commemorate 50 years of Doordarshan.

"I am proud to be associated with Doordarshan. It feels great to be part of such a momentous occasion today when the channel is completing 50 glorious years," he said.

Asked about his studio in Los Angeles, Rahman said: "Right now the studio is not there. I am in the middle of getting loans sanctioned to start other things on the project."