Rapper Jay-Z - file

Bangshowbiz

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.

Gallagher caused a stir when he said including a hip-hop artiste 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 are an important force in the world of 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.

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