The 'Feel' singer decided on adding a tribute to the late 'King of Pop' - who died on June 25 - to his forthcoming album at the last minute.

He said: "Michael Jackson died. It's all so very sad. I couldn't get a lyric to fit on one of the new songs, so when he passed away I rewrote it with him in mind."

Robbie only told record company executives of his plans to change the new LP at a meeting to finalise details for its autumn release last week.

The 35-year-old pop star also admits he had help writing the words from 'James Bond' lyricist Don Black.

Robbie added to Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper: "When I say I, I mean me and Don Black.

"I was having a tough time with lyrics for a little while. Nothing would come out. Don kindly came in and gave me a helping hand, I'm honoured.

"My album is a killer. There's 'Old Robbie', 'New Robbie' and a Robbie that neither of us has met!"

The 'Angels' singer is also reportedly set to step into Jackson's shoes to take over some of the dates he was scheduled to perform for his 50-date 'This Is It' residency in London.

Both Robbie and Whitney Houston - who are both releasing albums this year - are being lined up by promoters to fill 23 of the dates at The O2 arena early next year.