Washington, January 19 : Sir Elton John is reportedly desperate to have Amy Winehouse perform at his 2009 Oscar bash to ensure its success.

The 61-year-old hosts the party after the Academy Awards every year to raise funds for Elton John AIDS Foundation.

Performers who have obliged him previously have included Mary J. Blige and James Blunt.

And this year, the English singer was said to be eyeing Winehouse to be his chief performer after dubbing her amongst the greatest musicians.

"Elton is aiming to book the best cabaret on the circuit and he''s really keen to book Amy," Contactmusic quoted a source as telling British newspaper The Mail. (ANI)