USA For Africa – We Are The World: Lyrics and Music Video

"We Are the World" by USA for Africa is one of the most iconic charity singles in music history, released in 1985 to raise funds for famine relief in Africa. Written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie and produced by Quincy Jones and Michael Omartian, the song brought together 45 of the biggest names in music at the time, including Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Diana Ross, Bruce Springsteen, and Cyndi Lauper, among others. The song quickly became a global sensation, raising millions for humanitarian aid and symbolizing unity and compassion across the world.

Key Details:

• Release Date: March 7, 1985
• Album: We Are the World (1985)
• Writers: Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie
• Producers: Quincy Jones and Michael Omartian

Themes and Meaning:

• Global Unity and Compassion: The song's lyrics focus on the power of unity and the importance of helping those in need. It encourages people to come together for a common cause and demonstrates that collective action can make a significant impact.

• Humanitarianism and Responsibility: "We Are the World" emphasizes the moral responsibility to help others and highlights how small contributions from each person can lead to meaningful change.

Lyrics Overview:

The chorus is widely recognized and conveys the central message of the song:

• "We are the world, we are the children / We are the ones who make a brighter day, so let's start giving."

These lyrics underscore the song’s focus on unity, hope, and collective responsibility.

Musical Style:

• Pop Ballad with Gospel Influence: The song has a slow, uplifting ballad structure with gospel elements, building up in intensity as different vocalists contribute their unique styles.

• Layered Harmonies and Solo Performances: Each artist has a moment to shine, with solos interwoven throughout the song, leading to a powerful choral finish that enhances the feeling of unity.

Commercial Success:

• Chart Performance:
  • "We Are the World" reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became the fastest-selling American pop single in history at the time.
  • It went on to sell over 20 million copies worldwide, raising more than $63 million (equivalent to about $150 million today) for famine relief and humanitarian aid in Africa and the U.S.

Background and Creation:

• Inspired by Band Aid’s "Do They Know It’s Christmas?": After the success of the British charity single, Band Aid, Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson collaborated to write an American counterpart. Quincy Jones then organized an all-star recording session.

• Historic Recording Session: The song was recorded on January 28, 1985, at A&M Recording Studios in Los Angeles. The artists came together after the American Music Awards for a 12-hour session. The studio famously displayed a sign that read, "Check your egos at the door," emphasizing the importance of unity.

Legacy and Reception:

• Critical and Fan Acclaim: The song was lauded for its heartfelt lyrics, powerful message, and the extraordinary collaboration of artists. Fans around the world embraced it as a symbol of hope and compassion.

• Grammy Awards and Accolades: "We Are the World" won three Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.

• Defining Moment in Music History: "We Are the World" is seen as one of the greatest collaborative efforts in music history and a landmark humanitarian effort.

Cultural Impact:

• Symbol of Unity and Charity: The song became a cultural phenomenon, symbolizing the power of music to inspire social change. It set a precedent for other humanitarian songs and concerts, such as Live Aid, which also took place in 1985.

• Enduring Popularity: Decades later, "We Are the World" remains an anthem of hope and unity, often revisited during times of global crisis. It is widely remembered and respected as a song that transcended the music industry to make a real-world impact.

In Summary:

"We Are the World" by USA for Africa is a groundbreaking charity single that united music’s biggest stars for a cause, raising millions for famine relief in Africa. Released in 1985, it reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a global anthem for humanitarianism. With its powerful message of unity and hope, the song remains a defining moment in music and a lasting symbol of the power of collective action for good.