Taking a break from recording his new album in California, Robbie Williams headed for the gaming tables of Las Vegas with flatmate and sometime pop star Jonathan Wilkes. Robbie is busy recording a tribute album to the late Frank Sinatra, and it now seems as if the Brit Award winner has adopted both the style of Old Blue Eyes in and out of the studio.
Robbie alternated between the blackjack tables and the $1 slot machines at the posh Mandalay Bay resort and casino last week. “He seemed to be winning on the tables and then losing it on the slots,” said one onlooker. “His favourite machine was the Wheel Of Fortune.”
The Rock DJ singer’s upcoming album, cheekily titled Swing When You’re Winning, will feature covers of the Chairman of the Board’s greatest hits including The Lady Is A Tramp and They Can’t Take That Away From Me. And Robbie hasn’t just borrowed Frank’s old songs, he’s even hired his old band.
“This is me doffing my cap to the Rat Pack. I’ve loved this music since I was a kid,” says Robbie. “For me to sing in front of the band that backed Sinatra in the same studio that he used is an honour. Prepare to be astonished.”
The Others beauty Nicole Kidman recorded a duet for the album, praising Geri Halliwell’s pal. “Robbie is a sweet soul and a great singer,” says the former Mrs Tom Cruise. “His version of Mr Bojangles made me cry.”
“Nicole has a beautiful voice,” says Robbie, who joins the Aussie on Something Stupid. “I heard her sing in Moulin Rouge and I asked if she would be interested, fully expecting to be knocked back – she’s a proper Hollywood star. But she said yes. I was amazed and thrilled.”
Robbie, who recorded his take on We Are The Champions alongside Queen for the upcoming film A Knight's Tale, aims to release the new disc in November just before heading Down Under on tour.
