Grace Jones to sing at Elton's Oscar party

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- Entertainer Grace Jones is to perform at the upcoming 18th annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Award Viewing Party in Los Angeles, organizers said.

The fundraising gala is to take place March 7 at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood.

"Grace Jones is not only an amazing performer, but a dear friend and a fellow activist in the fight against HIV/AIDS," John said in a statement. "Without a doubt, Grace will put on a show for our guests that will have them talking for years to come. It is an absolute honor to have Grace as part of this evening that means so much to the foundation."

The Elton John AIDS Foundation was established in the United States in 1992 and in the United Kingdom in 1993 by John, its founder and chairman. Together, both entities have raised nearly $175 million for HIV/AIDS programs in 55 countries around the globe since inception, the organization said.