Michael Jackson called Prince a ‘meanie’ after one of his concerts, Will.i.am has claimed.
Giving an insight into the rumoured rivalry between the iconic musicians, the Black Eyed Peas star recalled a time when Jackson was put out after Prince reportedly ‘goaded’ him.
Speaking on this week’s Graham Norton show, he said: “One time we had a show in Vegas and Michael called asking if he could come and what time it started, when I told him nine, he said ‘Oh rats, I’ve got to put the kids to sleep.’
“I told him I was performing with Prince later on and that he should come along. It was a magnificent night with me, Chris Tucker and Michael Jackson watching Prince rock on stage.
He continued: “Prince steps off the stage and plays the bass in Michael’s face.
“Michael invites me over for breakfast the next day and the first words he says as he opens the door are, ‘Why was Prince playing the bass in my face?’
“When I said he was just being nice, Michael said, ‘No, he’s always been a meanie.’”
Prince - In pictures
Paying tribute to both late superstars, Will added: “Bless their hearts, they were both so passionate and we have lost some great musicians.”
While Jackson passed away back in 2009 at the age of 50, Prince died in April aged 57.
Other guests on this week’s Graham Norton Show include Johnny Depp, Jennifer Lawrence and James McAvoy.
Graham Norton, BBC1, Friday 10.35pm.
