A host of the biggest music stars in the world are keen to acknowledge the late 'Billie Jean' singer's contribution to pop by recording versions of his tracks for a new charity album.

Robbie Williams, Whitney Houston, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross have also been linked to the LP, as has British schoolboy Shaheen Jafargholi - who was hand-picked to appear at last month's memorial concert for Michael, who died of a suspected cardiac arrest in June.

A source said: "The idea came from the memorial concert. Many fans asked if cover versions from it would be released, and it seemed a wonderful idea.

"This covers album is sure to be a massive worldwide hit with fans and could raise a fortune for Michael's favourite charities."

The assembled stars will pick their favourite tracks by the 'King of Pop' to cover. It is believed Mariah will reprise her version of 'I'll Be There' from the memorial, while Shaheen will sing his version of 'Who's Loving You'. He has also reportedly been asked to record Michael's early smash 'Ben'.

Robbie is apparently being lined up to sing 'Man In The Mirror', and other tracks expected to be on the album include 'Rock With You', 'She's Out Of My Life' and 'Bad'. A tribute concert to Michael is also being planned in London - where he had been due to play 50 shows starting this summer and running into 2010 - on the date of what would have been his 51st birthday, August 29.