Download Chris Martin/Michael Stipe Charity Duet On iTunes

As reported recently here on this site, Chris Martin joined REM's Michael Stipe for a charity single to continue aid for Hurricane Katrina victims.

'In The Sun', written by Joseph Artur, premiered on US television drama 'Grey's Anatomy' following Sunday's Super Bowl (February 5). The track is now available for purchase solely on iTunes, with proceeds going to benefit Mercy Corps.

"The news cycle has moved on and I don't want the public to forget about those who were affected by Katrina or to believe that everything is fine now," Stipe said in a statement yesterday. He added: "It's a unique place, not only to this country but to the world. I had to do something as a Southerner. I had to do something as a public figure. The one thing I can do is sing, and it's probably the best way to get people to pay attention."

The song features piano by Fountains Of Wayne's Adam Schlesinger and production by Stipe with ex-Smashing Pumpkins guitarist James Iha. In addition to the duet with Chris, the single will be available in a number of formats on iTunes, including a live version recorded by Coldplay and Stipe at the Texas music festival Austin City Limits earlier this year, as well as a remix by Justin Timberlake and Black Eyed Peas star will.i.am. 'In The Sun' will also be featured in a documentary film of the same name, which airs on US cable network the Sundance Channel later this year. Stipe, Martin and a number of hurricane survivors are interviewed in the picture.

The full track listing of 'In the Sun' is:

Michael Stipe - In the Sun (Gulf Coast Relief) (Feat. Chris Martin)

Michael Stipe - In the Sun (JAW Breakers Remix) (Feat. Chris Martin, Mix by Justin Timberlake and will.i.am)

Michael Stipe - In the Sun (Feat. Joseph Arthur)

Michael Stipe - In the Sun (Michael Stipe)

Michael Stipe - In the Sun (w/ Coldplay) (Recorded Live at Austin City Limits)

Michael Stipe - In the Sun (Free Acoustic Couch Rehearsal) (Michael Stipe/Joseph Arthur)