Blur’s Damon & Graham To Play Fundraising Pre-Brit Awards Gig

Blur’s Damon Albarn and Graham Coxon have been announced as special guests for this year’s pre-Brit Awards fundraising gig. The pair will join headliner Ed Sheeran and BBC Sound Of 2012 nominees Dry The River for the bash, which takes place at London O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire on 19th February and is being hosted by O2 and War Child. Albarn and Coxon will also be appearing at The Brit Awards at London’s O2 Arena on 21st February, with Blur set to receive the Outstanding Contribution To Music award at the 2012 event. Bassist Alex James recently revealed that the Britpop legends would definitely be performing at the event, stating:

“We’re going to play, which is brilliant, it’s like putting the Blues Brothers back together.”

James had also previously hinted that the band were likely to record new music together again, although suggested that they wouldn’t release the songs as a full studio album.

Meanwhile, Sheeran – who has picked up four Brit Awards nominations including nods for Best British Male Solo Artist and Best British Album, said of being chosen to headline the Brit Awards party:

“War Child does amazing music events for such a great cause. To be asked to play this year is an absolute honour.”

Music Director of War Child Ben Knowles added:

“War Child’s annual BRIT Awards show has become a unique and important date in the music calendar, with some of the biggest and best musical talent coming together to support War Child.”

He continued:

“We believe music can make a difference, it can change lives. This year’s amazing line-up will prove that – it will make for a stunning, unforgettable night and one that will raise money to help thousands of children affected by war. We’re very grateful to all the acts and O2 for their fantastic support.”