Swizz Beatz - real name Kasseem Mike Dean - has laughed off a current rumor saying that he cheated on his wife with superstar singer Alicia Keys.

Beatz says "I can no longer ignore the harmful rumours, that my friend Alicia Keys is in any way linked to my marital circumstances or to the decision that Mashonda and I have made to separate.

"I am disappointed that some have chosen to try and tarnish Alicia's reputation by irresponsibly implicating her in a situation that she has absolutely nothing to do with. This experience has been one of the most difficult times in my life, and as was stated when we announced our separation several months ago, I ask that you continue to respect my privacy in dealing with this personal matter."