The record, due to be released in November, includes 10 previously unheard songs, as well as forgotten tracks.

It has been put together by Jackie Jackson, one of the singer’s older brothers, and producer Rodney Jerkins.

Will.i.am, who has worked with Jackson in the past, said: "How you gonna release Michael Jackson when Michael Jackson ain't here to bless it?"

"He was a perfectionist and he wouldn't have wanted it that way. I don't think that should ever come out.”

Speaking in an interview with the Associated Press, Will.i.am added: “Now that he is not part of the process, what are they doing? Why would you put a record out like that?

"Because he was a friend of mine, I just think that's disrespectful.”

It is the first of ten scheduled new releases which form part of a deal between Sony and Michael Jackson’s estate.

Jackson died in June last year at the age of 50. His death was ruled as homicide.

(by Jason Gregory)