Rapper T.I. used the internet to apologize for missing pal Pimp C's funeral as part of a rambling home movie shot as he celebrated Christmas as a prisoner in his own home.

The "Big Things Poppin' (Do It)" hitmaker - real name Clifford Harris Jr. - was placed under house arrest last month after being charged with possession of unregistered machine guns and silencers and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.

But he didn't let his incarceration stop him from addressing fans and friends at Christmas, posting a festive video online on Christmas Eve.

The scarf-clad rap star was partly incoherent as he told fans his new album is almost 30 percent complete, and urged them to "keep a smile on your face because I got a smile on mine."

He ended the video message by apologising for missing Pimp C's funeral on December 13, explaining he was under house arrest and could not attend.

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)