An industry source says, “Rahman is currently busy with a track for the film Blue and he will then set his eyes on completing his Hollywood venture Couples Retreat. Post these two assignments, he will take a plunge at doing this international album that will see him make music for some of the best singers and artistes of the world. It is a very hush-hush project as Rahman is now currently meeting with officials who are firming up the names that will feature in this star-studded album.”

The insider adds, “It is heard that Rahman might be teaming up with people he has already worked with for this compilation. He has worked with Pussycat Dolls for Jai Ho and they are certainly the hot favourites on the list. Rahman is also very fond of Mick Jagger and Joss Stone having been associated with them. Efforts to rope them in can’t be ruled out.

He has also recently recorded with Kylie Minogue and she is a huge star in the West. She will definitely be approached for the album. Several other big names who have expressed their willingness to work with AR Rahman are also being looked at.”

The informer further says, “Rahman has also worked with the Finnish folk music band Varttina for whom he did the music for the theatrical production The Lord of the Rings. Vanessa Mae could also be in, as also Karen Shenaz David.”

Despite several attempts, while Rahman remained unavailable for a comment, his aide confirmed, “Rahman has been contracted for this and he will start working on the album at the end of this year. The list of the artistes are being finalised, so we can’t reveal much, but yes, it will have all international artistes in it. The album will be a compilation.”