Robbie Williams writing songs with Blockheads

Robbie Williams is busy writing new material with
Blockheads star Chaz Jankel - and Ian Dury's old pal insists the singer is on "top form".

Williams contacted Jankel, the co-writer of hits such
as 'Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick' and 'Reasons To Be Cheerful Part 3' with Dury, in a bid to boost his own hit-making potential.

Although it was announced recently that Williams was \"on strike\" from label EMI, he is a big fan of the new wave band - and became friendly with Dury just before his death in 2000 - so decided to invite Jankel to Los Angeles for a "some intensive writing sessions".

"Working with Robbie is great - it's extraordinary being part of this songwriting team," Jankel told NME.COM from Los Angeles. "Kelvin and Danny of Sound 5 are bringing a very sharp yet witty contribution to the affair."

Jankel added: "Robbie is on top form and the atmosphere is totally conducive to writing great music."

The Blockheads, who are currently celebrating their
30th anniversary and are still touring (often with the
Blockhead megafan, comedian Phill Jupitus taking over vocals), are reassuring fans that they are not losing a member of
the band to Williams' clutches.

"We are thrilled for Chaz," explained keyboardist Mickey
Gallagher, "This is something Robbie should have done a
long time ago!"

Williams is cagey about when his new work with Jankel will
be released, although the The Blockheads are set to release a new
anniversary album in April.


The Shockwaves NME Awards 2008 are coming soon – and it’s time to have your say. Vote now by heading to NME.COM/awardsvote and you could win VIP tickets to the ceremony, which takes place in London on February 28.