Akon broke down in tears on American television yesterday when listening to a track he had recorded with Michael Jackson.

The R&B star appeared on The Today Show to speak about his time working with the late King of Pop when an excerpt of 'Hold My Hand' was played.

Featuring poignant lines such as “This life don't last forever”, the emotion got too much for Akon as he struggled to fight back the tears.

Paying homage to Michael, Akon said:  "He (Michael) always wanted just to bring people together."

Akon also showed a photograph of himself and Michael when they were in the studio together. You can see it below.

Speaking on Michael's planned 50 date O2 Arena tour, Akon said: "He was excited for his new tour. He didn't realise how much people were into him when he sold out those tour dates.”

“This is something he really wanted to do for them (his kids). He really wanted them to experience what they'd been hearing about and thinking about forever. He wanted them to be able to see the performance first hand. He motivated me to become a better father."

Michael Jackson's memorial service will take place at the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles later today. Stay tuned to Gigwise for comprehensive coverage.

Akon on The Today Show: