Robbie Williams Puts Solo Career First

Robbie Williams will not reunite with Take That for their UK tour.

The 'Angels' singer - who previously hinted he was hoping to perform with his old bandmates - has decided not to join them for their 20 shows in case it hinders his solo career.

Take That star Jason Orange said: "He said it's not right for him. There's no chance of it happening this time."

Robbie - who sensationally quit the group 14 years ago after a rift with Gary Barlow - is desperate for his music to be taken seriously and has reportedly been discouraged from reforming by his advisers.

The 35-year-old singer, who is currently working on his long-awaited eighth album, had fuelled reunion rumours after returning to the UK from Los Angeles with girlfriend Ayda Field.

Robbie previously voiced his interest in joining his former bandmates on stage, saying: "I think it would be fun. It would be good. I'm in regular contact with them, even Gary, so it's looking more likely by the week.

"The lads seem up for it and some people think it's a done deal."

It was recently revealed Robbie is planning to stage a £10 million comeback with a residency at London's O2 arena next year, the same venue where Michael Jackson is set to perform 50 dates from July.

A source said: "He wants to blow Michael Jackson and Take That out of the water with his comeback tour. It's going to be huge. He wants these shows to help re-establish him as the King of Pop.

"Robbie has been itching to get back in front of a live audience since he started writing his new album two years ago. He's planning to put on a super show to win back all the fans he's lost."

Take That, also consisting of Mark Owen and Howard Donald, kicked off their UK tour on Friday (05.06.09) at Sunderland's Stadium of Light.