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Elton John performs on FOX's Idol Gives Back

By April MacIntyre Apr 15, 2010, 7:25 GMT

British songwriter and singer Sir Elton John performs during a concert at the archaeological site of Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico, late 03 April 2010. EPA/JESUS ESPINOSA

Elton John is set to perform on American Idol's "Idol Gives Back" episode.

As part of his global effort to raise awareness for and to end HIV/AIDS, Sir Elton John will perform on Wednesday, April 21 (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) on FOX, on behalf of the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

Alicia Keys, Carrie Underwood, The Black Eyed Peas, Annie Lennox, Jeff Beck & Joss Stone and Mary J. Blige & the All-Star Band will also perform.

In addition, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has joined as a not-for-profit partner on the charity special.

Sir Elton John has become a legend since forming his first band in 1961 and continues to sell out concerts all over the world. In 1992 in the U.S., and then in 1993 in the U.K., John established the Elton John AIDS Foundation to support innovative HIV prevention programs, efforts to eliminate stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS and direct care and support services for people living with the disease.

Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives.

In an interview with host Ryan Seacrest, Bill and Melinda Gates will describe their commitment to improving health around the world.

The brainchild of Simon Fuller, the charity event has made history by raising over $140 million to date. This year’s special celebration will help raise awareness and funds to benefit various U.S. and international charities, including Children’s Health Fund, Feeding America, Malaria No More, Save the Children’s U.S. Programs and the United Nations Foundation.

Tickets are currently on sale for the IDOL GIVES BACK celebration at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and can be purchased by calling 1-800-745-3000 or by visiting ticketmaster.com.

Additionally, viewers can visit www.idolgivesback.org now and join the “Help Me Give Back” program, an online initiative that empowers individuals and teams to help raise money for the event.