The Song “We Are the World” by Michael Jackson – Avazkhon’s goosebump moment

Unity and Aid

“We Are the World,” a song co-written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, stands as one of the most significant humanitarian efforts in music history. Released on March 7, 1985, the song was recorded by an ensemble of prominent artists under the collective name “USA for Africa.” This project was initiated to raise funds for the famine-stricken people of Ethiopia. The song not only became a massive commercial success but also a symbol of global solidarity and compassion.

The idea for “We Are the World” was sparked by the success of Band Aid’s 1984 charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” which was also aimed at alleviating hunger in Africa. Inspired by this, Harry Belafonte, along with fundraiser and activist Ken Kragen, sought to create an American response to the crisis. They enlisted Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie to write the song, and Quincy Jones to produce it.

Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie began working on the song in Jackson’s home studio in Encino, California. They aimed to craft a song that was both catchy and meaningful. The writing process was intense, with both artists dedicating numerous hours to ensure the song conveyed the right message. The result was a powerful anthem with a universal message of unity and aid.

The recording session for “We Are the World” took place on January 28, 1985, the night following the American Music Awards, to ensure maximum participation from the invited artists. Quincy Jones, who orchestrated the session, famously sent out a note to the performers that read, “Check your egos at the door.” The session brought together 46 of the biggest names in the music industry, including Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, and Tina Turner, among others.

“We Are the World” achieved monumental success. It debuted at number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 and quickly climbed to number one, where it remained for four weeks. It became the fastest-selling American pop single in history, and eventually sold over 20 million copies worldwide. The single raised more than $63 million (equivalent to about $150 million today) for humanitarian aid in Africa and the United States.

In 2010, a new version of the song, titled “We Are the World 25 for Haiti,” was recorded to aid victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. This version featured contemporary artists like Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus, and Lil Wayne, alongside some of the original performers. While not as commercially successful as the original, it underscored the song’s enduring legacy as a rallying cry for humanitarian causes.

More About “We Are the World” by Michael Jackson:

• Michael Jackson – Wikipedia
• One Of Michael Jackson’s Biggest Hits Dances Back Onto The Charts
• Michael Jackson: Biography, Musician, Dancer