Jay-Z says has urged the public to support Rihanna after being allegedly attacked by her boyfriend Chris Brown.

The rapper, who discovered Rihanna in 2004, says he doesn't want to get drawn into making 'soundbites' commenting on the alleged incident, but did say 20-year-old Rihanna needs all the support she can get.

He told Hollywoodscoop that he refused to pass direct comment on the issue because: "It's not a soundbite, this is a real situation. You have to have compassion for others. Just imagine it being your sister or Mom and then think about how we should talk about that."

However, he continued: "I just think we should all support her. She's going through a tough time. You have to realise she's a young girl, as well. She's very young."

As reported earlier today, Chris Brown has issued a public apology and says he is undergoing counselling to help change his ways.

(by Scott Colothan)