Studies have shown that the music of classical composers such as Mozart and Bach, played to children in the womb and at an early age, can help to increase intelligence and logic skills.

It may be the fact that the music of Robbie Williams can also have this desired effect on young minds.

According to The Sun, specialists at Vienna University have discovered that listening to some types of pop music can help children develop learning abilities.

The study revealed that some of Robbie's songs contain melodies that lower stress and boost learning skills. Apparently the trick is to write a hit that has a tempo close to that of a human heartbeat. "It works," confirmed study leader Konrad Zimmerman.

Other artists cited in the study, carried out on behalf of the LernQuadrat organisation, included Norah Jones, Daniel Powter, Kelly Clarkson and former Spice Girl Mel C.