(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Jay-Z has dismissed claims Will Smiths nine-year-old daughter is too young for a record deal, likening her to a youthful Michael Jackson.

Willow Smith has signed to Jays Roc Nation record label, and her first single Whip My Hair is already available to view online. The track was watched more than 100,000 on video sharing website YouTube within a day of being posted on the site.

Some people have criticised the decision to allow Willow Wills daughter with his wife Jada Pinkett Smith to record music due to her age, but Jay insists it isnt a problem.

I heard the record first before I knew that it was recorded by a nine year old and I was like, man that record's a smash. I believe in superstars. I believe in big records and in superstars and I think [Willow] has both, the hip-hop star told Ryan Seacrest in a radio interview.

She has a child's innocence but she has a clear vision of who she is and who she wants to be. I can only imagine that's how Mike [Michael Jackson] was as a young kid, he knew exactly what he wanted. When you have that sort of talent, there is no such thing as too young.

Jay added the first time he met Willow she told him she was nervous, which impressed him. He likes people to be open and honest with him, and thinks she showed maturity by admitting she was worried.

He likened Willow to Rihanna, who Jay also discovered. Its not the first time the young star has been compared to the older singer Willows edgy sense of style and shaved haircut have led many to believe she looks up to Rihanna.

Willow is taking her new career in her stride, and has spoken about the meaning of Whip My Hair.

It means just be an individual. Like, you can't be afraid to be yourself, you have to be yourself, and you can't let anyone tell you that that's wrong, she told Ryan.

My mom teaches me to say how I feel all the time. My mom and me are very strong individuals and I just know that, because lots of people, they don't act like themselves, so they're not happy." (C) Cover Media