Eminem 'confirms' Mandela gig appearance

Eminem has confirmed his appearance at Nelson Mandela's 90th birthday party this summer, say reports.

The controversial hip-hop star was lured into playing a comeback show by Queen guitarist Brian May, reports The Sun.

A source said: "We’re amazed to have Eminem on board. We wanted some of the greatest artists from recent times and Eminem was on the list.

"Brian contacted Eminem’s management on the off-chance and never expected him to go for it. It’s going to be explosive stuff and it’s certainly a big stage to make his comeback."

They added: "I know Eminem’s lyrics are always at the centre of controversy but people forget he did actually sing with Elton John at the Grammys. He also publicly apologised for the offence caused by racist lyrics."

Eminem announced his retirement from music in 2005, but he is currently rumoured to be working on a new studio album for release later this year.

Stevie Wonder, Annie Lennox, Razorlight and Keane are also rumoured to be playing the concert at London's Hyde Park on June 27.

It was revealed last month that Will Smith and wife Jada Pinkett Smith would host the tribute to the former South African president.