The Lebanese singer Ragheb Alama has denied rumours that he is leaving hit show Arab Idol next week. Speaking to Arabstoday, Alama said: "It was a joke, but soon it turned into a reality for some people. It was just a prank but some people tried, in vain, to take advantage of it." The singer also revealed that his new album, which features collaborations with a number of Lebanese and Arab composers, is set to be released in early summer.