We Are the World

Lore & Background

Inspired by Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas?", Harry Belafonte decided to create an American single for African famine relief. The recording brought together era's best-known artists including Bruce Springsteen, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, and Tina Turner. The song was recorded at A&M Recording Studios in Hollywood. More than 45 top musicians participated, and another 50 were turned away. A sign taped to the studio door read: "Check your ego at the door." Prince did not attend; one newspaper said he did not want to record with other acts, another suggested he did not want to partake because organizer Bob Geldof called him a "creep." John Denver asked to participate but was refused. "We Are the World" topped charts worldwide, became the fastest-selling US pop single in history, and the first single to be certified multi-platinum. It won four Grammy Awards, one American Music Award, and a People's Choice Award.

Reader's Guide

"We Are the World" stands as a landmark in charity music, demonstrating the power of collective celebrity action for humanitarian causes. Its massive sales and chart success set a precedent for future benefit singles. The project raised over $80 million for famine relief in Africa and the United States, and its model inspired subsequent charity recordings. The song's legacy includes its cultural impact as an anthem of unity and its role in raising awareness about global hunger.

Did You Know?

• The song was written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, completed the night before the first recording session.
• More than 45 top musicians participated, and another 50 were turned away.
• Prince did not attend; one report said he did not want to record with other acts, another suggested he declined because Bob Geldof called him a 'creep'.
• John Denver asked to participate but was refused; he later wrote that the rejection 'broke my heart'.