Darfur album released today

LONDON – Stars from the worlds of rock and pop have united on an album to be released on today to raise funds for the people of the Darfur region of western Sudan.

US band REM and British singers David Gray and Badly Drawn Boy are among musicians who have contributed to “Songs for Sudan”, which will help to fund charity Oxfam’s work for those driven from their homes. “People like us might not have the power to stop the violence but at least we can try and help the people who are affected by it,” said Badly Drawn Boy, Damon Gough.The artists and record labels involved in the album are forgoing royalties and five pounds of the 7,99 pound (US$14) price label will go to Oxfam’s Sudan appeal.The Darfur conflict began in February 2003 after two rebel factions took up arms to protest alleged discrimination by the government in Khartoum.The United Nations estimates up to 50 000 have died since the conflict began.More than a million have fled their homes for fear of attack by Arab militia, known as Janjaweed, who rebels say are supported by the government.Khartoum admits arming some militias to fight the uprising, but denies any links with the Janjaweed, saying they are outlaws.Nampa-Reuters”People like us might not have the power to stop the violence but at least we can try and help the people who are affected by it,” said Badly Drawn Boy, Damon Gough.The artists and record labels involved in the album are forgoing royalties and five pounds of the 7,99 pound (US$14) price label will go to Oxfam’s Sudan appeal.The Darfur conflict began in February 2003 after two rebel factions took up arms to protest alleged discrimination by the government in Khartoum.The United Nations estimates up to 50 000 have died since the conflict began.More than a million have fled their homes for fear of attack by Arab militia, known as Janjaweed, who rebels say are supported by the government.Khartoum admits arming some militias to fight the uprising, but denies any links with the Janjaweed, saying they are outlaws.Nampa-Reuters