New Michael Jackson album fares poorly

Michael Jackson's latest greatest hits compilation has not been greeted with open arms in the US, reaching only 128 in the charts.

The Essential Michael Jackson sold just 8,000 copies in its opening week, despite the star's hopes that its release would signal a turnaround in his career and provide a boost to his flagging bank balance.

The release has fared much better in the UK, charting at number two last weekend.