(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-02-20 09:16

Mary J. Blige arrives at 'Movies Rock: A Celebration of Music in Film,' at the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles, in this Dec. 2, 2007, file photo. [Agencies]

Two longtime AIDS activists are seeking to make beautiful music together on Oscar night: Mary J. Blige will join Elton John on stage for a duet at John's AIDS Foundation Academy Awards viewing party Sunday.

"Elton John is one of the most inspirational musicians and philanthropists in this industry for me," Blige said in a statement Tuesday. "I respect him with all my heart, and it is truly a pleasure to be performing with him on such an important night as we look to raise awareness and vital funds for the fight against HIV/AIDS."

John's annual Oscar party has raised more than $15 million over the past 15 years. Blige's AIDS-awareness efforts date back to 2000, when she worked with MAC Cosmetics on its Viva Glam fundraising campaign.

The "queen of hip-hop soul" has also worked with John before. He played piano on her single "Deep Inside." No word yet on what song the two will perform at the Oscar party.