Two longtime AIDS
activists are seeking to make beautiful music together
on Oscar night: Mary J. Blige will join Elton John on stage
for a duet at John's AIDS Foundation Academy
Awards-viewing party Sunday.
''Elton John is
one of the most inspirational musicians and
philanthropists in this industry for me,'' Blige said in a
statement Tuesday. ''I respect him with all my heart,
and it is truly a pleasure to be performing with him
on such an important night as we look to raise
awareness and vital funds for the fight against HIV/AIDS.''
John's annual
Oscar party has raised more than $15 million over the past
15 years. Blige's AIDS-awareness efforts date back to 2000,
when she worked with MAC Cosmetics on its Viva Glam
fund-raising campaign.
The ''queen of
hip-hop soul'' has also worked with John before. He played
piano on her single ''Deep Inside.'' No word yet on what
song the two will perform at the Oscar party. (AP)