Valletta - The Black Eyed Peas Wednesday defended themselves against accusations of plagiarism as the band prepared to perform at the Isle of MTV concert in Malta.

The American band is facing legal action from DJ Adam Freeland, who has claimed that the group used the beat from his track Mancry in Party All the Time, which featured on their latest album The E. N. D.

Speaking during a news conference, band member apl. de. ap played

down the accusations and said that the band's manager had offered them a beat and "it was a case of working together."

He added: "It was a lack of finalising legalities before releasing the record, clearance was not done and that was what it was about."

Celebrity blogger Perez Hilton had written: "According to reports, Black Eyed Peas member and producer will. i. am was at an event last year where Freeland performed this song in question."

The Black Eyed Peas said they would be performing a tribute to Michael Jackson at the Isle of MTV concert, which was expected to draw tens of thousands.

"It will happen, I am hurt by his passing. I was blessed by working with him, becoming a friend, with his family, kids and caretakers," apl. de. ap said.

The concert was also expected to feature eccentric singer Lady Gaga, who turned up to the news conference wearing a black plastic face mask.(dpa)