We Are the World: The Story Behind the Song

In a world where music and activism were about to intersect in a way that would be remembered for generations to come, a group of the most renowned musicians in the United States came together to create something truly extraordinary. The result was the iconic single 'We Are The World,' a song that not only raised funds for famine relief in Africa but also became an anthem for a generation. This documentary, 'We Are the World: The Story Behind the Song,' takes viewers behind the scenes of the making of the song, showcasing the tireless efforts of those involved and the passion that drove them to create something that would change history. The idea for 'We Are The World' had been in the making for months. In 1984, a severe drought and subsequent famine had struck Ethiopia, leaving millions without food or shelter. Amidst the chaos, it was discovered that over eight million Ethiopians were at risk of starvation. The United States government, along with other international organizations, responded by dispatching aid to the devastated country. However, the US musicians involved in this project felt more could be done to raise funds and increase awareness about the crisis. They proposed a charity single, which would bring together some of the biggest stars in America to create a unified voice for the cause. The task fell to Quincy Jones, a renowned producer who would play a pivotal role in making the single a reality. Jones set about assembling a group of songwriters who would be able to create something both catchy and meaningful. He initially approached Carole Bayer Sager, Michael Jackson, and Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds, but it was when he enlisted the help of Lionel Richie that the song truly started to take shape. Richie and Jackson collaborated on the song's title and message, which Richie is credited with creating. The lyrics of 'We Are The World' captured the essence of unity and the message of 'every man's hand' working to provide aid to those in need. Once the song was complete, Jones and Richie moved on to recruiting some of the biggest musical talents in the US to contribute their vocals to the track. The challenge was enormous – to get some of the biggest stars of the time to put aside their competitive spirits and come together for a common cause. Jones and Richie approached an array of artists, each with their own unique story and talent. Michael Jackson was the first musician Jones went to, knowing the impact his participation could have. Jackson, who had recently released his iconic album 'Thriller' and was one of the best-selling artists of all time, was more than willing to join in the cause. The project then snowballed with artists from Michael Jackson to Billy Joel, Dan Aykroyd to Willie Nelson, Tina Turner to Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder to Kenny Rogers all agreeing to contribute to the single. The sheer talent and calibre of the performers involved ensured that 'We Are The World' would not only be a financial success but also create a profound musical statement. On January 28, 1985, the day of the big recording session finally arrived at A&M Studios in Los Angeles. Over a hundred musicians gathered at the studio, each eager to add their contribution to the song. The atmosphere in the studio was electric as the musicians all gathered to work on the track. It was to be a marathon session that would last for hours, but everyone present knew it would be worth it. As the recording session began, Quincy Jones set the scene for the musicians, emphasizing the importance of their combined efforts. Each artist took turns to add their part to the song, some with tears in their eyes, others simply driven by the passion of the moment. With everyone on a high from the excitement and camaraderie in the studio, the first takes of the recording began. It was during the initial takes that the first signs of magic started to emerge. The song's iconic chorus began to take shape, with a soaring melody that seemed to capture the spirit of unity that the song was all about. Throughout the day, musicians came and went, some dropping by briefly to lend their support before returning home to their own commitments. Despite the long hours, the spirit that drove everyone to participate in the single remained unwavering. Quincy Jones was the driving force behind the sessions, but it was ultimately the combined talents of each musician that made the single something truly special. The end result of the marathon recording session was a single that would go on to shatter all records and raise awareness about the crisis affecting millions around the world. 'We Are The World' spent four weeks at the top of the Billboard singles charts and eventually raised over sixty million dollars for famine relief efforts in Africa. As 'We Are The World' continued to break records and push the boundaries of what could be achieved through music, its impact extended far beyond the realms of the charts. The single had brought together some of the biggest stars in America and created something truly extraordinary. It showed the world that when talent, passion, and a shared cause combine, the result can be truly magical. A testament to the power of music, 'We Are The World' continues to be celebrated today as a cultural touchstone that inspired a whole generation of music lovers.