PHILADELPHIA, United States (AFP) - Hip-hop impresario Russell Simmons, a co-producer of Saturday's Live 8 concert in Philadelphia, is still holding out hopes of getting Michael Jackson to perform at the show.

Simmons said he had no concerns that Jackson's recent acquittal on child molestation charges would overshadow the concert's mission of raising awareness about poverty in Africa.

"He was found not guilty," Simmons said. "The guy deserves the benefit of the doubt. He's the most newsworthy (performer). If he jumps on that stage, that'll mean a lot."

Jackson, who was acquitted June 13 after a 19-month legal ordeal, is currently on vacation in Bahrain.

A source close to the small Gulf kingdom's ruling family told AFP that was a friend of some "senior figures" in Bahrain and had come to "rest and relax as a guest."

Simmons said his goal was to get Jackson and Prince to join the current lineup of stars on stage for a finale rendition of the 1985 Live Aid anthem "We are the World," which Jackson co-wrote.

"They haven't said no. Until they say no, I'll keep dreaming," he said.

The concert in Philadelphia will feature acts like Beyonce, Alicia Keys, rapper Jay Z and Stevie Wonder.

Simmons, the founder of hip hop label Def Jam Records, said he had managed to persuade top US rapper Kanye West to perform and was also bringing in DJ Green Lantern to spin between acts.

"I love what we're doing -- using young hip-hop people to sell this idea," Simmons said. "They're the best brand-builders in the world."

maybe prince will bust out the lollipop for 'we are the world' again.

what is this, 1985? Live Aid?

CinisterCee said:

I only wish, music would be good

lilgish said:

lilgish's own wish for Live8 - "couldja make it 1985 pls?"

CinisterCee said:

I Don't Like Mondays or 2005

Simmons said his goal was to get Jackson and Prince to join the current lineup of stars on stage for a finale rendition of the 1985 Live Aid anthem "We are the World," which Jackson co-wrote."They haven't said no. Until they say no, I'll keep dreaming," he said.

Interesting since he's been very hard on Michael in the past.

JackieBlue said:

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He has been very hard on Mike and Prince. I can't imagine why they would do anything he asked. He once said he would not pay a dollar for Prince's contract. As if P needed Russ's dollar.