Jay-Z hits back at Noel Gallagher

Jay-Z has hit back at Noel Gallagher saying his Glastonbury slot is an evolution of the music festival.

The New York rapper has broken his silence over his controversial headlining appearance, and insists the Oasis guitarist should be more open-minded about rap music.

Noel caused a stir when he said including a hip-hop artist on the bill was "wrong" because the festival has a "tradition of guitar music".

Jay-Z told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "We don't play guitars, Noel, but hip-hop has put in its work like any other form of music.

This headline show is just a natural progression. Rap music is still evolving."

Jay-Z also insists rap and urban music is an important force in world music. He added: "People have a passion and have an opinion about who should perform there. But the world changes and we have to embrace the change. I've never been involved in anything this controversial. What's the big deal about doing a show?"

Glastonbury has seen its slowest ticket sales for years in 2008, with tickets still remaining for the event a month after they were made available.

Joining Jay-Z as headliners are Kings of Leon and The Verve. Other acts confirmed to play include, Crowded House, KT Tunstall, The Fratellis, Massive Attack and Groove Armada.

Glastonbury festival runs over the weekend of June 27-29 in Somerset, South West England.