Stars including Jay-Z, Sean 'Diddy' Combs and Mary J. Blige have written an open letter to the youth of America - urging them to vote in the upcoming presidential election.

The trio came together with record executive Kevin Liles to pen a note to encourage young people to register their political views in next's month's poll.

The move comes as the deadline for voter registrations looms on Monday.

The open letter, delivered to Allhiphop.com, reads, "Dear Young America, We are in a state of emergency!!! You must register to vote by Monday October 6, 2008! We are at war, banks are closing, people are losing their jobs and houses every day. It is our responsibility to protect our futures. Time is running out.

"If you have not registered to vote, you are disrespecting everyone that sacrificed their lives for you to have this right. You are also disrespecting your future. We can be the deciding factor in this election, but you must register to vote to make your voice heard. Who are we? We are young America. This is our moment of truth. Vote to make history on November 4th!"