Bob Geldof and Imelda May have joined forces in the hope of raising money for the people of Ukraine in a major music event.
The superstars will perform tonight as part of Night for Ukraine, which will be held at the Roundhouse in Camden, north London with the funds raised being donated to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) appeal to provide aid to people fleeing Ukraine.
The fundraising event echoes the famous benefit concert Live Aid, held in 1985 and organised by the Boomtown Rats singer, which aimed to raise money for famine relief in Ethiopia.
Geldof said he was keen to get involved with the fundraising event for Ukraine and wanted to do what he could to support the Ukrainian people.
He said: “At least it stops me feeling so utterly impotent if only for an hour or two.
“You can do the same by simply showing up and enjoying yourself.
He added: “See you there.”
Meanwhile, Imelda May said her heart goes out to the Ukrainian people.
She said: "Like everyone I have been watching the news in disbelief at what is happening over in the Ukraine. My heart goes out to all of the Ukrainian people.
"Tomorrow night (Wednesday 9th March) I will be among many others taking part in a special musical and arts event launched to raise money for Ukraine."
Ukrainian-born pop duo Bloom Twins, who helped organise the event, will also perform, along with The Pretenders star Chrissie Hynde and Ukrainian baritone and principal artist for the Royal Opera House, Yuriy Yurchuk.
Bloom Twins explained that as Ukrainians it had been “humbling” to see the support their country was receiving from the rest of the world.
“We are really looking forward to being a part of this project, and not just as a one-off performance but as creative collaborators,” they said.
“This is an absolute honour to be representing our country and helping people caught up in this devastating conflict.
“There is so much every one of us can do to make a difference and even though it’s called Night for Ukraine, the impact of it will last much longer than a night. It will belong in our memories forever.”
The evening will also feature the resident choreographer of The Royal Ballet, Wayne McGregor, and a special performance from The London Community Gospel Choir.
The project has been organised by the founder of Secret Cinema, Fabien Riggall, in collaboration with the Bloom Twins and Sunflower Relief, alongside Phoenix Court, Roundhouse, Sofar Sounds, Platoon and Lost.
Night for Ukraine is also encouraging other artists, organisers and venues to stage their own night across the nation to support DEC.
The DEC brings together 15 of the UK’s leading aid charities, including British Red Cross, Oxfam UK and Save the Children UK, who are working on the ground in Ukraine and at the country’s borders to help those fleeing the conflict.
