Help for Haiti, with a definite edge

NEW YORK (March 5, 2010)-Actor Johnny Depp joined A-list music stars from the darker side of rock-and-roll to record a song in support of relief work in earthquake-stricken Haiti. Proceeds will go to support the large-scale emergency response mounted by Concern Worldwide. The international humanitarian agency has been active in Haiti since 1994.

The project is the brainchild of legendary Pogues front man Shane MacGowan who enlisted The Pretenders' Chrissy Hynde, Nick Cave, Mick Jones of The Clash, Glen Matlock of The Sex Pistols and other luminaries to record "I Put a Spell on You," the classic song written by Screamin' Jay Hawkins in 1956.

"We're deeply grateful for this fantastic recording by such a distinguished group of artists. It will boost our exposure to vital audiences around the world and raise desperately needed funds for Haiti," said Siobhan Walsh, Concern's executive director.

"Despite the fact that Haiti has moved from the headlines, the people there need our help more then ever-particularly with the imminent rainy season threatening many thousands still without shelter," Walsh added.

Since the promotional release, momentum has been building on Twitter, Facebook, and countless blogs and websites to drive the single to the top of the charts.

The song was chosen because Hawkins died exactly ten years to the day before the earthquake hit Port-au-Prince on Jan. 12. The song will be released March 8 and be available for purchase via download only on iTunes & Amazon.com.