THREE 6 MAFIA - OSCARS GET RAPPING

The Oscars will get a rap makeover next month (MAR06) thanks to Memphis, Tennessee hip-hoppers THREE 6 MAFIA and the cast of acclaimed movie HUSTLE + FLOW.

Three 6 Mafia stars PAUL 'DJ PAUL' BEAUREGARD and JORDAN 'JUICY J' HOUSTON penned Oscar-nominated rap song IT'S HARD OUT HERE FOR A PIMP for the film and have confirmed they'll perform the tune during the Academy Awards telecast.

Actress TARAJI HENSON will join the rappers onstage at the Kodak Theatre to reprise her part in the tune.

The song will be the first rap song ever performed at the Oscars.

Meanwhile, Henson's fellow Hustle + Flow star CHRIS 'LUDACRIS' BRIDGES will make his Oscars debut as a presenter. The film's star, TERRENCE HOWARD, is nominated for a Best Actor honour.