The Making and Meaning of 'We Are Family'

The Making and Meaning of 'We Are Family' is a documentary film that delves into the origins and significance of the iconic song 'We Are Family', written by Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers of the legendary disco group Chic. The film features a diverse array of artists, musicians, and industry professionals who share their experiences, insights, and perspectives on the song's enduring power and influence. One of the first interviewees to appear in the documentary is Afrika Bambaataa, a pioneering funk and hip-hop artist who was instrumental in popularizing 'We Are Family' in the early 1980s. Bambaataa recalls the song's early days, when Chic performed it as a B-side to their hit single 'I Want Your Love'. He describes how 'We Are Family' eventually gained momentum as a club anthem, with its catchy disco beat and inspiring lyrics resonating with a generation of young people. As the film progresses, we hear from Ashford & Simpson, a renowned songwriting duo who were among the first to record a cover of 'We Are Family'. They discuss the challenges of translating Chic's original disco sound into a more soulful and R&B-inflected interpretation, while still maintaining the song's essential spirit and message. Jackson Browne, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, shares his own connection to 'We Are Family', which he has performed live on numerous occasions. Browne reflects on the song's timeless themes of unity and togetherness, observing that its message remains as relevant today as it was when the song was first released. Kim Burrell, a versatile R&B singer-songwriter, provides a unique perspective on 'We Are Family', drawing parallels between the song's message and her own experiences as a woman and an artist. Burrell expresses the song's ability to transcend musical genres, appealing to audiences from diverse backgrounds and backgrounds. Carmen Electra, an actress and model, shares her personal story of discovering 'We Are Family' as a teenager. She recalls the song's impact on her life, inspiring her to pursue a career in the entertainment industry and to celebrate self-empowerment and individuality. Faith Evans, a respected singer-songwriter, reflects on the song's emotional resonance and the way it has brought people together over the years. Evans shares her own experiences with the song, from performing it in clubs and concerts to experiencing its transformative power in her personal life. Roberta Flack, a legendary singer-songwriter, shares her recollections of first hearing 'We Are Family', which she credits with influencing her own musical direction. Flack discusses the song's connection to the broader disco era, a pivotal moment in music history that continues to shape contemporary pop culture. Joel Grey, a renowned actor and cabaret performer, offers insight into the song's use in live performances. Grey draws parallels between the dynamic energy of 'We Are Family' and his own experiences with live theater, highlighting the song's unique ability to command an audience and inspire collective participation. KC & the Sunshine Band's own Harry Casey and Ferdy "Kc" Love offer additional insights into the song's early days, when Chic's original recording was released. They recall the song's meteoric rise to fame, and the impact it had on the group's own music, as they began to incorporate disco elements into their own performances. Eartha Kitt, a beloved actress and cabaret performer, provides a poignant perspective on 'We Are Family', reflecting on the song's universality and its ability to transcend generations and cultural boundaries. Patti LaBelle, a highly respected R&B singer-songwriter, shares her personal connection to the song, which she has performed live alongside other artists. LaBelle highlights the song's message of unity and togetherness, which she believes lies at the heart of its enduring appeal. Finally, Queen Latifah, an accomplished actress and musician, concludes the film with her own thoughts on 'We Are Family', observing that the song's timeless message is just as relevant today as it was when it was first released. She reflects on the song's role in her own life and career, serving as a reminder of the power of music to unite people from all walks of life. Through its diverse range of interviews and perspectives, The Making and Meaning of 'We Are Family' sheds new light on the origins, significance, and enduring appeal of this iconic song. The film ultimately celebrates the universal message of 'We Are Family', a true anthem of love, unity, and self-empowerment that continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world.