A new Michael Jackson single, which features Akon, will be released on Monday (November 15).

The track, entitled ‘Hold My Hand’, was first recorded in 2007 and leaked onto the internet in 2008 before it had been completed.

In a statement, Jackson’s record label Sony said Akon had recently finished work on the song and that the late singer had asked for it to be released.

"The world was not ready to hear 'Hold My Hand' when it leaked a couple years ago,” Akon said. “We were devastated about it.

"But its time has definitely come; now in its final state, it has become an incredible, beautiful, anthemic song. I'm so proud to have had the chance to work with Michael, one of my all time idols.”

‘Hold My Hand’ will form the first single from the forthcoming new Jackson album ‘Michael’, due out next month.

The album also includes collaborations with 50 Cent and Lenny Kravitiz.

Jackson died suddenly in June 2009. His death was ruled as a homicide.

(by Jason Gregory)