Michael Jackson and the Sheikh (NOT The Onion)

[uppityperson]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/7733608.stm
Michael Jackson and the Sheikh



Sheikh 'planned Jackson revival'

The King of Bahrain's son planned to revive Michael Jackson's career with songs he had written himself, London's High Court has heard. Sheikh Abdulla Bin Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa also gave the pop star financial support, his lawyer said. The royal is suing Mr Jackson for £4.7m for reneging on a music contract which would have paid back the loans.

Mr Jackson contests the claim, saying there was no valid agreement and that the payments were "gifts". An application has been made for the star to give evidence from the US via a video link during the 12-day hearing.

The sheikh and Mr Jackson had a "close personal relationship" during his six-month stay in Bahrain three years ago, the royal's lawyer Bankim Thanki told the court. The singer travelled to the country, with his children and personal staff, at the sheikh's invitation "to relax" shortly after being cleared of child abuse charges in the US.

Prior to his stay, Sheikh Abdulla set up Mr Jackson with a recording studio on his Neverland ranch and sent him his own musical compositions. A recording of a finished song will be played in court, Mr Thanki said....(more@ link if you really must read more)