It was 25 years ago when “We Are The World” anthem raised millions of dollars to aid famine relief in Africa. Today, the biggest artists came together on Monday, February 1st to remake the song to benefit the victims of Haiti from the deadly January 12 earthquake which killed more than 200,000 people.
Among the 80 members were Lil Wayne, Kanye West, LL Cool J, Robin Thicke, Celine Dion, Akon, Wyclef Jean, Jordin Sparks, Snoop Dogg, Jennifer Hudson, Keri Hilson, Jamie Foxx, Tyrese, Sean Garrett, Melanie Fiona, Enrique Iglesias, Toni Braxton, Busta Rhymes, Nicole Scherzinger, Usher, Raphael Saadiq, Lady Gaga, India.Arie, Musiq Soulchild, Fonzworth Bentley, Kid Cudi, Bizzy Bone, Trey Songz, Faith Evans and Mya. will.i.am and RedOne will serve as music producers.
According to media reports, Janet Jackson, who was not present at the session, is scheduled to sing her brother’s lines from a studio in Atlanta on Tuesday, February 2.
“We Are The World” was originally written by Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie and co-produced by Quincy Jones. It featured stars such as Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, Ray Charles, Diana Ross, Dionne Warwick, James Ingram, Jackie Jackson, La Toya Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Randy Jackson and Tito Jackson.
The song has grossed over $63 million for humanitarian aid in Africa and sold more than 20 million copies since it was released in March 1985.
The video for the song, which is being shot in 3-D by Oscar-winning “Crash” director, Paul Haggis, will debut on February 12, during the coverage of the Vancouver Winter Olympics. The contemporary version of “We Are The World” and the accompanying video will be available for purchase on-line.
All proceeds will go directly to the earthquake relief efforts in Haiti through the “We Are The World” Foundation, a non-profit organization made by Quincy Jones, Lionel Richie and Wyclef Jean.
Written by Valerie Varasse
