Despite my many gripes about modern Hip Hop one thing I’ve gotta give props to the new school is their ability to continue the culture’s tradition for rallying around a cause.  Although at times it can appear self-serving or even cheesy, Hip Hop does have heart and you can count on her artist to band together to support a worthy cause in time of need.

Leading the way in Hip Hop this time around is Jay-Z as he solicited the help of producer Swizz Beats and U2 front man, Bono for a benefit track about the tragic events in Haiti.

@THEREALSWIZZZ: ME, BONO, HOVA, HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY ABOUT HAITI

@THEREALSWIZZZ STAY TUNNED I TOLD YOU I WAS WORKING ON SOMETHING AMAZING FOR HAITI THEY NEED US!!!!!!

Further details including the name of the track and/ or any possible benefit from proceeds are still yet known but with Bono’s history of philanthropy we would guess there would be some significant financial campaign to give back.

Not to be outdone Music For Relief, a charitable organization devoted to the Haitian relief effort recently signed a slew of major recording artists including Lupe Fiasco, Linkin Park, Kenna, Enrique Iglesias, the Dave Matthews Band, Peter Gabriel, Alanis Morissette, Slash, The All-American Rejects, and Hoobastank for a unique compilation called Download to Donate.

The compilation will feature already released music (I’m guessing in lue of recording new stuff given the time sensitivity.)  The project will be given to those who donate to Music for Relief’s efforts in Haiti.

In conjunction with the United Nations Foundation, Habitat for Humanity and Dave Matthews Band’s BAMA Works Haitian relief effort the project will provide food, water, and emergency medical supplies, and long-term sustainable housing solutions for the people affected by the earthquake. Visit MusicForRelief.org for more info and to make a donation.