George Michael's Spice-y Xmas

Sep 3, 2007, 11:35 GMT

Britrish pop singer George Michael performs on stage during a concert at the Athens Olympic Stadium, Greece, 26 July 2007. EPA/SIMELA PANTZARTZI

George Michael is writing a Christmas song for the Spice Girls.

The 'Careless Whisper' singer is confident he can pen a hit for the band to challenge the winner of this year's 'X Factor' - the British TV talent show - for the coveted UK Christmas number one.

A source said: "The girls are thrilled to be in talks with George.

"If it happens, this year's Christmas number one will be a two-horse race between the Spice Girls and the 'X Factor' winner."

Michael and the Spice Girls are no strangers to success.

The singer has enjoyed 10 UK number ones, while his world famous festive single 'Last Christmas' with Wham! reached number two in 1984.

The Spice Girls have topped the UK charts on nine occasions, including three times at Christmas.

Last year, 'X Factor' winner Leona Lewis claimed the Yule Tide top spot, while Shayne Ward, another winner from the hit show, was king of the Christmas charts the year before.

Meanwhile, Spice Girl Victoria Beckham has hired a top choreographer for the band's world tour.

The band - which also comprises of Emma Bunton, Mel B, Mel C and Geri Halliwell - have enlisted the help of Adam Shankman to update their dance routines for their 15-date tour.

Shankman, who worked on hit movie 'Hairspray' and was a judge on US TV show 'So You Think You Can Dance', plans to get the girls into a US dance studio next month.

A source said: "Adam will be starting rehearsals in October in Los Angeles. He is bringing a team of teachers so the girls can get individual lessons and as a group. They are in for some tough training."

The Spice Girls tour starts in Vancouver, Canada, on December 2.

(C) BANG Media International