R.E.M.'s Michael Stipe and Coldplay's Chris Martin Sing on Hurricane Katrina Benefit Single "In the Sun"

Michael Stipe, the lead vocalist for rock group R.E.M., recognized that the needs of victims of Hurricane Katrina did not end last fall. They continue on today as displaced people continue to attempt to rebuild their lives, homes, and families. He decided to do what he does best - sing - to provide some assistance.

The result was a recording of the song "In the Sun" written by singer-songwriter Joseph Arthur. For his recording, Michael Stipe enlisted the help of his friend Chris Martin, lead vocalist for British rock band Coldplay. To expand the project, Justin Timberlake and will.i.am, of the Black Eyed Peas, created a remixed version of the original recording. By the time the project was released to the public, there were 6 versions of the song available.

All proceeds for the recording go directly to MercyCorps to directly benefit survivors of the horrific storm. Currently, the recordings are available exclusively as digital downloads from iTunes. For more information on the project, visit the In the Sun Foundation.

Clips of "In the Sun":

• Original Mix: Windows | Quicktime
• JAW Breakers Remix by Justin Timberlake and will.i.am: Windows | Quicktime