Eminem turns down Live 8

Showbiz

09:30 15 June 2005

Eminem has turned down Live 8 to spend time with his daughter.

The controversial rapper admits he was approached by organiser Sir Bob Geldof to perform at either the London or Philadelphia leg of the spectacular charity event but bowed out of performing.

Instead, the 'Mockingbird' singer is making the most of a break in his hectic touring schedule to see daughter Hailie.

He told Britain's BBC Radio One: "I had to turn it down. I would have done it if the schedule was different but have to make the most of my time with my daughter."

Eminem is the latest star to opt out of the charity concert, which is taking place in five different cities simultaneously, including Paris, Berlin and London.

Oasis pulled out of the London show in Hyde Park because they have a show in Manchester on the same day, which is being filmed for a documentary, while Radiohead have said 'no' to the event because guitarist Jonny Greenwood has just become a father for the first time.

Blur singer Damon Albarn recently attacked the event for not having enough African artists performing on the bill and told organisers he would not be playing because it doesn't show African musicians any "respect".

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