James Blunt to Perform at 15th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Party to Celebrate the Academy Awards

James Blunt to Perform at 15th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Party to Celebrate the Academy Awards

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- The Elton John AIDS Foundation has announced that the Grammy nominated artist James Blunt will perform at the 15th Annual Elton John AIDS foundation (EJAF) party to celebrate the Academy Awards on Sunday, February 25, 2007 at the Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles. The event will be co-hosted by Sir Elton John and David Furnish and is co-sponsored by Audi, Chopard and VH1.

Britain-born singer and songwriter James Blunt made his musical debut in 2004 with the U.K. release of his Custard/Atlantic recorded album Back to Bedlam. The album, fusing adult alternative, Britpop, pop, rock and folk, hit U.S. shelves in October 2005, and is now certified by the RIAA as double-platinum. Immediately popular in the U.S., Blunt became the first British artist to top the American singles chart in nearly a decade with his smash hit single "You're Beautiful." The last British artist to reach #1 in the U.S. had been none other than Elton John in 1997, with "Candle in the Wind." The upcoming Oscar party will not be the first time the two vocal powerhouses join forces; Blunt held a supporting role on tour with Elton John in 2004.

"James is a truly talented singer/songwriter, his voice and expressive lyrics enchant audiences worldwide," says Sir Elton John. "I have no doubt that he will do the same for our guests on Oscar(R) night."

Blunt has earned five nominations for the 49th Annual Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for "You're Beautiful," Best Pop Vocal Album for Back to Bedlam and Best New Artist. Blunt's new live album and DVD, Chasing Time: The Bedlam Sessions, was released in 2006.

ELTON JOHN AIDS FOUNDATION: Since its establishment in 1992 by Founder and Chairman Sir Elton John, the Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) has raised nearly $120 million to support HIV/AIDS prevention and service programs in 55 countries around the globe. Today, EJAF is one of the world's leading nonprofit HIV/AIDS organizations. EJAF focuses on supporting community-based prevention education programs, harm reduction programs, and direct services to persons living with HIV/AIDS, especially populations with special needs. These efforts include HIV/AIDS-related physical and mental health services, HIV testing and counseling, street outreach and education, food distribution, assisted living services, social service coordination, and community volunteer recruitment and support.

AUDI OF AMERICA, INC.: Audi of America, Inc., is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. Audi's history in America dates to 1969, when the brand was first introduced to the U.S. market. Today, a network of over 260 Audi dealers currently offers a line of premium vehicles that include the Audi A3 premium compact; the sporty A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high performance S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high-revving RS 4 sports sedan; the design-leading A6 sedan and Avant; the all-new Audi Q7 performance SUV; and the all-aluminum Audi A8; and the award-winning TT Coupe and Roadster.

CHOPARD: There are few jewelers in the world whose designs are immediately recognizable. At the forefront of that list is Chopard. For over 140 years, the "World of Chopard" has embraced elegance, originality and individuality. Renowned internationally for its award-winning "Happy Diamonds" creations, the Chopard collection also includes an array of designs that adorn celebrities around the world. Meticulously crafted in Geneva, Switzerland since 1860, Chopard has distinguished itself worldwide for luxurious jewels and impeccably crafted, high-precision timepieces that embody imaginative design and sophistication. For further information, phone 1.800.CHOPARD or visit Chopard on line at www.chopard.com.

VH1: VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 90 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital services including VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul and VSPOT, VH1's broadband channel. Connect with VH1 at www.VH1.com.

Source: Elton John AIDS Foundation

CONTACT: Christina Lee or Ivy Mollenkamp, both of ROGERS & COWAN,
+1-310-854-8100, for Elton John AIDS Foundation

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