Ne-Yo: Michael Jackson`s Comeback Will Be Greatest

I`ve been submitting songs and he`s been picking the ones he likes. But I` ve no idea when the album will come out, Ne-Yo said.

Ne-Yo says Michael Jackson’s comeback could be the “greatest ever”. The R’n’B singer – who is currently touring with the Pussycat Dolls – has been writing songs for the ‘Thriller’ singer’s new LP, and admits he is incredibly excited about Michael’s material.

He said: “I’ve been submitting songs and he’s been picking the ones he likes. But I’ve no idea when the album will come out. That’s a question for Michael. “This is such a huge record for him so he can be as picky as he likes. It’s either going to be the greatest comeback ever or a really sad attempt at recapturing old glories. And we don’t want it to be the latter.”

Ne-Yo – whose real name is Shaffer Chimere Smith – admits he was shaking like a leaf the first time he met his idol to discuss the album.

He said: “He is one of my heroes and meeting him was surreal. At first, I didn’t know what to say but we soon broke the ice by chatting about music. “Also it’s no secret I hung up on him the first time he called. “Someone calling himself ‘Mike’ rang me, and I hung up because I thought it was a
joke. Ten minutes later, I got a call from his manager saying that Michael Jackson really did want to talk to me.”

Ne-Yo - who has previously penned hits for Rihanna, New Kids On The Block, Celine Dion and Lionel Richie – recently revealed he wants to duet with ‘Just Dance’ singer Lady GaGa. The 29-year-old star said: "I really hope Lady GaGa and I can work together. I have never been so excited about an artist before.