Gorillaz 'turned down Perry collaboration'

Gorillaz bassist Murdoc Niccals has claimed that the group turned down an opportunity to work with Katy Perry because she is dating Russell Brand.

The animated band - created by Blur frontman Damon Albarn and Tank Girl artist Jamie Hewlett - are believed to have rejected the singer's request for an appearance on their forthcoming album Plastic Beach.

Niccals told BBC 6 Music: "Katy Perry - she's been after a guest spot for ages and I tried to turn her down. No, I couldn't work with the woman while she's got Russell Brand all over her."

He continued: "I wouldn't invite anybody that I didn't admire. There are lots of different methods to get this sort of talent on this sort of record. One way is you can phone them up and ask them. That's one way.

"The Gorillaz name goes a long way now. Much further than it did at the beginning. Now, it gives you carte blanche really. You can ask whoever you like. Some people will just agree on the back of that. Others take a little bit more persuading."

Gorillaz release Plastic Beach on March 8.