Artists and songwriters from across the EMI family are raising funds to help the Red Cross support people affected by last month’s earthquake and tsunami in Japan through an auction of personal items and memorabilia.

The charity auction, which will be managed by eBay, features items from some of the world’s biggest rock stars including IRON MAIDEN, MEGADETH, ALICE IN CHAINS,

All funds raised will be used towards the Japanese Red Cross disaster relief efforts to help those affected by the earthquake and tsunami.

The first phase of the charity auction starts today (April 5) and will run until April 15, with more than 200 exclusive items. A second phase of the auction will take place between April 11 – 21. All the items can be viewed on eBay.

The list of items for sale in the first phase of the charity auction from April 5 – 15 includes the following:

- ALICE IN CHAINS - a signed setlist, and 20 piece poster set
- DEPECHE MODE - a limited edition lithographic print create to celebrate the release of the Tour of The Universe Barcelona DVD, signed by the band and framed.
- HUEY LEWIS & THE NEWS - hand written, autographed & framed lyrics, plus a personalized certified gold album for Greatest Hits, and a VIP concert experience & personal phone call from Huey to the winner
- SIMPLE MINDS - spend a day on tour with the band

The list of items for sale in the second phase of the charity auction from April 15 – 21 includes the following:

- IRON MAIDEN - exclusive limited edition ‘Ed Force One’ A2 print signed by Iron Maiden, two pieces of original Iron Maiden Japan 2011 event artwork signed by artist Herve Monjeaud, plus signed Nicko McBrain drumsticks as used on The Final Frontier World Tour
- MEGADETH - a guitar signed by Dave Mustaine
- DAVID GILMOUR - three framed and signed prints of David Gilmour in Gdansk, photographed by Anna Wloch, including David, Polly and Lech Walesa, David on stage at soundcheck and a selection of David's guitars.
- BEACH BOYS - signed limited edition Pet Sounds plaque, plus hand-written, autographed & framed lyrics to a Beach Boys song from Brian Wilson
- THE BEATLES - the last of an extremely limited edition Schwinn bicycle featuring the Yellow Submarine artwork

Billy Corgan (SMASHING PUMPKINS) - a limited edition tour t-shirt worn by Billy Corgan

- DAVID BOWIE - 35 albums signed by the artist

(Thanks The Salt Lake Tribune)