Amex, AEG Strike Deal

American Express has inked a sponsorship deal to be the official credit card for AEG venues and teams in Southern California. The agreement covers the Staples Center and the Home Depot Center, as well as the Los Angeles Kings and Los Angeles Galaxy professional sports franchises, among others.

The deal designates American Express as a founding partner of the Staples Center and the Home Depot Center, provides in-venue signage and exclusive benefits for cardholders, including early on- sale ticket opportunities.

For example, to promote the new agreement cardholders can purchase tickets, prior to public sale, for the Ray Charles tribute concert, Genius: A Night for Ray Charles at the Staples Center on Oct. 8.

Hosted by Jamie Foxx, the event will feature Mary J. Blige, Kenny Chesney, Al Green, Elton John, Norah Jones, BB King, Reba McEntire, David "Fathead" Newman, Billy Preston, Usher and Stevie Wonder. The tribute will be taped to air as a television special on CBS.

AEG is a holding company for several sports franchises and entertainment venues.