Michael Jackson’s doctor Conrad Murray preparing to sue AEG

Michael Jackson‘s doctor Conrad Murray is reportedly preparing to sue promoters AEG for $300,000 (£180,000) he says he is owed – for two months of unpaid services.

Miranda Sevcik, publicist for Ed Chernoff, his lawyer, said that AEG had been “dragging its feet” over the payments, hinting that a lawsuit was on the way. “Dr Murray needs the money and he’s entitled to the money based on the contract he signed with AEG,” she said, reports TMZ.

AEG had been organising the ‘This Is It’ residency at the London O2 Arena that had been set to take place last summer. Murray claims to have signed a deal with the promoters entitling him to the money after giving up his GP practice.

The doctor is under investigation for Jackson’s death.

Paul McCartney to be honoured by US Library of Congress

Paul McCartney is to be awarded the Gershwin Prize For Popular Music in Washington in spring 2010.

The former Beatle will be the third musician – and the first non-American – to receive the prize, which is awarded by the US Library Of Congress. Stevie Wonder and Paul Simon were the previous recipients, with the former’s award being presented to him by US President Barack Obama in February 2009.

Speaking about the forthcoming honour, Librarian Of Congress’ James H Billington said McCartney’s lasting effect on music was what made him special, reports the New York Times.

“It is hard to think of another performer and composer who has had a more indelible and transformative effect on popular song and music of several different genres,” he said.

An all-star tribute concert is also expected to take place around the same time as McCartney receives the honour. Although no date has been set, the singer confirmed that he plans to play at the show. He added that he is “hugely honoured” to be receiving the award.

N-Dubz’ Dappy and Fazer to be quizzed in police rape inquiry

N-Dubz‘ Dappy and Fazer have been asked by police to come forward to help them with their inquiries into an alleged rape. The incident is said to have taken place at Butlins holiday camp in Skegness in the early hours of Saturday morning (November 14) after the band performed at the Naughty Reunion event. 22 year-old Junior Edwards from Islington, north London was arrested on suspicion of rape and common assault the following day but released on police bail. He is due to return to Skegness police station on February 15. Police are appealing to Dappy and Fazer, real names Dino Contostavlos and Richard Rawson, to contact them as potential witnesses. The incident allegedly occurred after the duo went back to accommodation at the holiday camp with Edwards and three women in their early 20s from the London area, reports BBC News. A police spokeswoman said: “Three further men from the Camden area of London are being sought as potential witnesses in relation to the allegations.”