War Child announce pre-BRITs show

Along with all the awards gossip and imminent Red Carpet action, it wouldn't be BRIT Awards with MasterCard season without a few parties! The first big one to be announced is this year's official War Child pre-BRITs event in West London.

The star-studded event will take place on 19 February at the O2 Shepherds Bush Empire, with tickets available from Thursday 2 February priced at £40.

Headlining the 2012 event is four-time BRITs nominee Ed Sheeran, who will be performing live at the charity event. The rising young star will be sharing the bill with Britpop royalty Damon Albarn and Graham Coxon of Blur, recipients of the 2012 Outstanding Contribution to Music award.

Also on the bill are upcoming London band Dry The River - with more big names soon to be announced.

"War Child does amazing music events for such a great cause,” said Ed Sheeran “to be asked to play this year is an absolute honour."

The War Child and O2 event is a celebration of great live music and the power of music to change people’s lives. All ticket proceeds will go to aid War Child's work with children in war zones across the world.

“War Child’s annual BRIT Awards show has become a unique and important date in the music calendar, with some of the biggest and best musical talent coming together to support War Child." says Ben Knowles, Music Director of War Child. "We believe music can make a difference, it can change lives.

"This year’s amazing line-up will prove that – it will make for a stunning, unforgettable night and one that will raise money to help thousands of children affected by war. We’re very grateful to all the acts and O2 for their fantastic support.”

War Child is an official charity partner of the BRIT Awards.

Stay tuned to The BRIT Awards here, on Facebook and Twitter for more information!