Brand named MTV VMA show host

LOS ANGELES, July 14 (UPI) -- British comedian Russell Brand has agreed to act as host of the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards show in New York, the network announced Tuesday.

This will mark the second year in a row Brand presides over the star-studded event. The 2009 VMA show is to take place Sept. 13.

"The evening will feature unprecedented performances by today's most popular artists, staged all over Manhattan, including Radio City Music Hall, and will feature appearances by the biggest names in music, television and film," MTV said in a news release.

Slated to make her first VMA performance is country-pop superstar Taylor Swift. British rockers Muse also will debut their latest single "Uprising" from their upcoming album "The Resistance" in what is being touted as their first TV performance in the United States.

"We are thrilled that despite numerous death threats from Jonas Brothers fans, Russell Brand has accepted our offer to put his life on the line and host the VMAs again this year," Stephen Friedman, MTV's general manager, said in a statement. "We're also excited to be coming home to bring the most rambunctious night in music back to New York City."

"MTV began in New York City and -- like many of us -- never left," added Mayor Michael Bloomberg. "New York City's music scene is second to none. Every night of the week, our clubs, cabarets, and concert halls are overflowing with the latest and greatest sounds. The Video Music Awards showcase the best in music, production and art, I'm thrilled to welcome the show back to the Big Apple for the 14th time."