R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe says the band are “thrilled” that their hit 'Everybody Hurts' has been remade to help the victims of the recent earthquake in Haiti.

The song, originally released in 1993, has been re-recorded for an all-star charity release organised by Simon Cowell and The Sun newspaper.

The new version features the likes of Mariah Carey, Robbie Williams, Take That and Rod Stewart.

"We are thrilled the song can help,” Stipe said. “Thanks from us to everyone involved and everyone who donates."

In a new development, the song will now be released on digital formats worldwide on February 7.

It will also be available the following day on CD, with stockists including HMV, Marks & Spencer, House of Fraser and a number of major supermarkets.

The 'Everybody Hurts' remake was well received after it was given a world premiere on radio yesterday.

(by Jason Gregory)