U2 frontman Bono will begin writing for the New York Times in 2009, it's been announced.

The singer will write between six and ten pieces which are expected to centre on his charitable efforts in Africa.

New York Times editorial page editor Andrew Rosenthal told students at Columbia's School of Journalism that Bono's writing would come for “nothing”.

Rosenthal also said he was keen for Queen guitarist Brian May to return to the paper. May wrote about space for the newspaper's website in 2004.

He also expressed admiration for Bruce Springsteen, a previous contributor to the newspaper.

(by Jason Gregory)