Except Dan Akroyd lol. But yeah everyone else was a bona-fide star, even the ones who didn't have a verse of their own like Smokey Robinson, Lindsay Buckingham, The Pointer Sisters, the Jacksons, Jeffrey Osbourne, Sheila E, Quincy Jones....GOATs!
@@arlopear7136 he was well established as an actor and very successful...he didn't sing any lines on the song, I'm speaking of those who had a main line to sing.
Even as a non-American I know all these artists. Just to be clear, every single artist there is a legend. A legend that every American should know, no matter what age.
And some are no longer with us today, its something to look back on and see all the great singers in different kinds of music come together for a great cause.
Lionel Richie - 0:26 Stevie Wonder - 0:39 Paul Simon - 0:43 Kenny Rogers - 0:53 James Ingram - 0:59 Tina Turner - 1:06 Billy Joel - 1:13 Michael Jackson - 1:19 Diana Ross - 1:32 Dionne Warwick - 1:48 Willie Nelson - 2:02 Al Jarreau - 2:09 Bruce Springsteen - 2:15 Kenny Loggins - 2:21 Steve Perry - 2:28 Daryl Hall - 2:36 Huey Lewis - 2:48 Cyndi Lauper - 2:54 Kim Carnes - 3:02 Bob Dylan - 3:48 Ray Charles - 4:27 Some artists not mentioned LaToya Jackson, Sheila E, Dan Aykroyd, a few of the Jackson brothers, Lindsey Buckingham and many more…
I grew up listening to it and the story of how it came to be from my momma who was in high school when it was recorded… i have played it for my daughter but what 11 yr old actually listens to their moms music lol trust me there are American kids who do know this song
I can't believe they didn't know who Tina Turner, Dionne Warwick and so many other of the iconic singers were. All of them are iconic. Truly a timeless and classic song.
In one take. I love the fun fact that the sign on the entry said check your ego at the door and Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder said they would be driving anyone who didn’t follow this one rule home personally 😂❤
You do realize that a lot of the big mainstream artists that you probably have heard online only use auto tune because the sound engineers, and producers force them to right? They don’t do that by choice…..they forced to.
Shut up not Africa. Just Ethiopia southern region which suffered a severe drought and crop failure. One Region of Ethiopia and not Africa which is an entire continent.
To understand... in the mid 80s, Africa was experiencing severe drought and famine. A group of British rockers lead by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure released a record (Do They Know its Christmas) with all proceeds going to famine relief in Africa. Then USA rockers lead by Harry Belafonte, Ken Kragen and Quincey Jones, recorded the video here with the same goal. The last effort was LIVE AID. This is a weekend concert televised from three continents. The Live Aid video of Queen you watched is from that concert. Phil Collins flew on the SST Concord to all three continents and performed in USA, UK and Australia in the same concert. It was televised on MTV. Incredible concert. The finale song in the UK included Bob Geldof, David Bowie, Freddie Mercury and most of the huge array of rockers that performed throughout the weekend event. The videos of the Uk Christmas record and that finale are on You Tube. They raised over $200 million and it was sent to Africa. Unfortunately it was intercepted by a dictator and terrorist group who used it for weapons against its own citizens. Still... no generation before or after in music ever took on such a huge task which could have made a difference. Next to this, in 1986, you have Comic Relief USA by Robin Williams, Whoopi Goldberg and Billy Crystal. They raised OVER $50 million for the homeless in the USA. I am very proud to be part of the generation that gave so much to humankind. ✌🏻
@@michaelasay8587 Yeah that was my biggest surprise. I must be very old. Tina is more recognizable than pretty much anyone alive but they didn't even flinch. Such an epic group of people from a bygone era of real music.
I'm American. I feel like so many Americans are poorly educated. Even poor people in England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales....are much better educated than Americans. Disgraceful. Sad. This group of young men exemplifies my sentiment
Years later, and I still recognize 90% of the musical artists. These artists weren't just ordinary musical stars, they were musical legends across different genres.
US new generations really don't know about these hits? I'm 17 years old and I've listened to these people my entire childhood. Specially couldn't believe you guys didn't recognise Tina Turner!! Love from Latin América
My brothers, I highly suggest educating yourself about these great artists. Legends who served the music industry with distinction. Love from South Africa
@@tracyfields4261 No excuse. I wasn't alive when Mozart or Beethoven were kickin' but I know their music. I blame their parents, or their grandparents.
No egos, No pretentions, No need to be center of attention, just amazing singers at the top of their careers, singing simply for compassion & love ❤ Such a wonderful initiative that raised a lot of money to help those in need ❤
Imagine trying to get that kind of talent together now - to drop everything and show up and no one is a headliner…as a teen it was awesome to see; as an adult now I understand the complexity of what they did and am an even bigger fan due to their compassion
Doubt there will ever be that much raw talent in the same room ever again. This was done after music awards they all checked their attitudes at the door and stayed all night to make it. On the morning of April 5, 1985, over 8,000 radio stations simultaneously broadcast the song around the world at the same time. Makes me feel old but this song is one of the best to come out of the 80's.
I might be remembering wrong, but didn't we all stand outside holding hands. Wait, I looked it up. Hands across America was sparked because of this. I think we sang this song when we did it. I was pretty young so the memory isn't very sharp.
I remember when this was released. In Canada where I live our musicians did the same thing. The severe famine in Africa at the time caused the British musicians to react to help them, it then spread to the US and Canada. This is truly a wonderful song. All those wonderful voices and singers. Jackson, Warwick, Ritchie, etc....Bruce, Stevie, Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers...
Whitney Houston was not in this group of singers, but her aunt Dionne Warwick was one of the legend singing a solo here. This was recorded after an award show, that's how all of these folks were able to be in one place at one time. You have R&B, Country, Rock, Folk and the Jazz genres of music represented by this gathering of vocal All Stars..
Dionne Warwick & Whitney Houston were 1st cousins. Dionne is 23 years older than Whitney because Dionne's mother, Lee (born 1920), had Dionne when she was only 20 (1940). Whitney’s mother, Cissy (born 1933), was the youngest of 8 children & didn’t have Whitney till she was 30 (1963).
@@RockFan89 Dionne’s mother, Lee, didn’t sing with Elvis. Whitney's mother, Grammy award winning Cissy Houston, did, but for just 5 weeks. Lee & Cissy started in their parent’s gospel group. In the late 1950s, Cissy, Dionne & Dee Dee (Dionne’s sister) formed the group, The Gospelaires, which evolved into The Sweet Inspirations (after Dionne & Dee Dee went solo). “The Sweets” backed some major singers, including Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Van Morrison, even Jimi Hendrix, & of course, Dionne Warwick. The Sweets got the gig with Elvis in 69 (& stayed till his death), but by then, Cissy had a solo contract. She did just the initial gig (1 week of rehearsals & 4 weeks of shows, ending Aug. 28, 1969). She left to work on her solo career & be home with her children. Of her brief time with Elvis, she said; “He was wonderful” “I loved him” “He was such a gentleman” & “so good looking, you didn’t even want to look nowhere else.”
This was put together by Michael Jackson. They got together right after the Grammy Awards. Everyone agreed that all proceeds would go to help Africa’s hunger.
I thought is was interesting that the guy's instinctively connected Dionne and Whitney simply thru voice alone, without realizing (it seems) that the two are cousins.
@@janehamm7465This was actually put together by Harry Belafonte, Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson co wrote it, and they got together after the American Music Awards of 1985 to record this
Who has failed these children? every single person in this video is a legend. I don’t understand , when we were kids we knew the legends from our parents generation and beyond as well as whatever was current. How do not know Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen, Dion Warwick or Billy Joel
BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT SERIOUS ABOUT REACTING TO THESE VIDEOS! THEY JUST TRYING TO GET VIEWS! MY SON IS 17...YOUNGER THAN THEM AND I MADE SURE HE KNEW THIS SONG!!!
@@divadoll1975 just cause they popular doesn’t mean you HAVE to have known them, they just vibing finding out about old music learn to love and appreciate
THIS! I mean I was far too young and we didn't have internet or anything close but I knew who Frank, Dean, Sammy Davis (ratpack) Elvis, Tom Jones, Chuck Berry, Tony Bennett, even Perry Cuomo and that era were...I mean, WTF
I'm just 18, and i grow up listening and singing to this song. It's a treasure, i'm brazilian, but i know every single artist and line of this song! It's really one of the best songs ever, and the message is amazing and beautiful.
I don't think people really appreciate how awesome this recording really was. With the exception of Lionel and Michael all of them learned the song, their parts, and harmonies etc and recorded in what night. And the lead voices couldn't be more different. Quincy Jones needs so much more credit for this
@sheilaholmes996 I know. Damn shame. All they know is sampling. Don't even know who the artists that the copy from... Growing up, I knew my generation's music and my parents' generation music. Nowadays, everything has such a short life. Short attention spans, too.
You know what...i don't want to sound evil but i'm actually a little relieved that most of these great artists aren't around anymore to see how stupid and embarrassing the world has become.
I end up in tears almost every time I hear this song. I was in elementary school when this song came out and it was huge. As an adult looking back, it was monumental to get all of those artists in one place at one time to record that song. Them deciding to donate all profits was amazing. To say that I love this song is an understatement. It’s great to see some of my favorite artists who aren’t here anymore; especially MJ.
I was in 6th grade and I will always remember watching it on TV when they put it out for us to watch... I cried like a baby. My little girl heart got so moved by the energy and the sound of love coming from so many beautiful voices. We sang it walking through the school and couldn't wait to record it on Saturday morning. Kaycee Kasem top 100 countdown 😂❤❤❤ and now I'm crying hearing it and seeing their reactions. Priceless!
Me too! I was a little kid in the 80’s when this came out this was an anthem for us all. I’m a white male from Middle America, had a Michael Jackson Thriller poster on my wall as a kid. I listened to heavy metal, Motown, Oldies, Hard Rock, rock ballads, R&B, rap, etc. Nobody thought about race like they do now. What makes me sad is how humanity has lost the message of this song and now they’re being told to look at race first and above character. I refuse to look at race as modern progressives around the globe tell me I should, I look past that and see what type of person someone is in their heart and soul. That’s all that should ever matter. God bless!
It wasnt that amazing, they just copied what Bob geldoff done in the uk a year or two before with a song called "do they know its Christmas" wich was done to raise money for Ethiopia.
The amount of talent you just watched is immeasurable. The Old school talent and the mix of personality will never be repeated. We lost some already, but they will always be remembered. ❤👏🏽
I'll be honest.. watching y'all reaction makes me simultaneously happy and sad.. sad that the artists on this album are all iconic in their own right and you can only identify a handful.. there's so much meaningful music from each and everyone of them that you've never heard.. on the flip side I'm happy to see y'all appreciate the different voice textures in this video also that you're willing to listen to and honestly react to music from my generation.. thank you
I feel the same way. It's pretty sad to not be aware of what an iconic song and moment in music history this was. I cringed when they didn't know Tina Turner and kept asking why Whitney wasn't there.
I didn't grow up in the 80s, I grew up in the 90s and honestly I listen to songs from 50s to present day and 80s is by far my favourite followed closely by the 70s. The 80s produced so much great music from very talented artists.
this song will never not give me chills. It’s my childhood and I remember watching this air live on tv. I know every face and every word. good memories
I can’t even begin to express the amount of talent that is in that room right there .. this was a huge huge deal when it came out for aids. A room full of legends.
Nope, only to Americans, but then again, it does say "We are the world", so I guess Americans have a heart time with that concept "world" being not synonimus with America. I mean they are the only country that have a national sports competition and then call it "the world series" even though not a single other country is involved. I mean, it sounds like someone overcompensating for a well earned inferiority complex.
Michael didn't help write it, he did write it. He asked Lionel Ritchie to help him with a verse of some sort that he was having trouble with. That is why Lionel got credit for writing the song. From the minds and hearts of two great artists 💜
i grew up a 80s kid and by 89 i was starting high school. music from this era was the best no autotune just real talent but they are right every singer is iconic and will live forever
This song still gives me chills. At the time the starvation in Africa was atrocious and all of these singers gave their time to make millions for a cause . They are all legends and wow look when people only played instruments without auto tune etc.
I just saw Lionel in concert on 11/11/22 in Atlanta. He performed this solo and had over 60 thousand people singing with their cellphone lights on at Falcon's stadium. It was incredible! One of those moments in my life, that I'll never forget
Reportedly, Bob Dylan was having some difficulty with his part. He requested working with Stevie one on one. In less than 30 minutes they had figured his part out. Stevie actually sang to Bob how he thought his part should sound. Bob went to Stevie for assistance. (Bob knew what he was doing) I know this to be a true story. Bob was not ashamed of it. He felt very out of place amidst this degree of artistry. Stevie worked with him and really helped him out. Bob nailed his part!!!
This is what this generation needs. All these artist from different genres coming together for one purpose. We could only be so lucky to have such an iconic moment in music history.
They’ll never be another moment like this in History! All the Singers were told to “ check egos” at the door! Even the “biggest” obligated and went GREAT!!!!❤❤❤
I am from Africa and I know ALL these artists, names and songs. How can American (African American for that matter), not know these artists and the contribution that this song (through Michael, Lionel and Quincy) made to the world? This song broke records.
Because they are Young and also, sorry to say, Kind of Babies, Not knowing Kind of nothing... When in time they grow, hopefully they gain some More knowledge, Not only in music, but also in general knowledge how the world is 'working', asking the right questions. All in all, they seem to be good Guys, so they can make IT...
I have a feeling these boys listen to a lot of things on the Internet rather than vinyl records that you used to be able to buy at the record store. So they buy what’s popular as opposed to what you would find at the back rack in a record store. Those days are gone and with that goes a lot of finding things on your own.. the Internet and the radio taken over all imagination for young people
WOW I'm 70 and you all really make me feel OLD! This is one of the greatest assembly of greats there has ever been! Pay attention to the "back ground" singers - Bette Midler, Jackson 5 and more! I remember when Michael Jackson got with Quincy Jones (the man conducting this!) to raise money for Children in Africa it was amazing and obviously a few of these people are gone now quite a few! It's just simply amazing! This was in 1988 I believe - even before Whitney and Celine .. this is magical really!
One of the greatest musical collaborations I can ever recall. I can still remember when this premiered on MTV. WHEN MTV played videos all day and night.
I can't listen to this without getting teary eyed. I was young school boy when the famine hit Ethiopia. We collected money for the relief effort, and then this song came along. It helped so much! Awareness of the situation was truly exploded by this, and it got people donating.
This one of the greatest songs of all time and there may never be another like it. I can remember as a member of the gospel choir in high school and we performed this song. There is history of why this song was created and was written to raise funds for Africa. The population was starving and no one was immune. Men, women & children died because of illness, dehydration, and starvation. This is where my faith in humanity derived from. The artists that performed "We are the world" not to benefit financially because the money raised went to help those in Africa. Much respect is due to the artists and their gifts.
One of the biggest factors was an epic drought. There was some farming, and livestock in even the most remote of villages, and, of course, hunting. Now think about how the drought affected all of that. No water to drink, or tightly rationing what there was. No water for crops or livestock. With no water the animals that were normally hunted for food either died quickly or migrated to areas in search of water. It was like the perfect storm of bad events.
Its not much of a story about how it was created, they just stole the idea of the uk who came up with it, they relesed a song called do they know its christmas a year or two before this to raise money for the famine in africa, simon le bon, u2, george michael, boy george, sting where just some of the names in the studio at the time, if you watch that then youll see this is just a straight copy of that idea.
@@olamide180 Who cares who originally came up with an idea of helping a charity? In reality the one your talking about copied giving to charity too. People have been giving to the less fortunate for years. Get over it!
@@elliceserpico711 Well the starving people in Ethiopia surely cared. What a stupid comment. What was copied was the idea of bringing music star's together on one song at the same time to raise money for the famine in Africa.
This was a HUGE deal when it was released. There was a severe famine in Ethopia in the early 80s, and the project originated with the late Harry Belafonte and Quincy Jones as a means to raise awareness and money to provide relief. The song itself was written by MJ and Ritchie. The amount of talent on his song is absolutely INSANE. It was like a Who's Who of rock and pop stars in the early 80s. Somehow even Dan Aykroyd snuck in there. Also present were five of the Jackson siblings: Jackie, La Toya, Marlon, Randy, and Tito. Michael really wanted Prince, but for unknown reasons (ranging from Prince not wanting to record with other acts, to not wanting to participate with Bob Geldorf specifically) he backed out (His Royal Purpleness did contribute a bonus track for the album release). Ritchie also invited Eddie Murphy, but Murphy was tied up with filming his video for Party All The Time. There were some FIFTY other artists who turned up as well, but had to be turned away. As for who some of the people you didn't recognize were, these are the soloists in the order in which they first appear: • Lionel Richie • Stevie Wonder • Paul Simon • Kenny Rogers • James Ingram • Tina Turner • Billy Joel • Michael Jackson • Diana Ross • Dionne Warwick • Willie Nelson • Al Jarreau • Bruce Springsteen • Kenny Loggins • Steve Perry • Daryl Hall • Huey Lewis • Cyndi Lauper • Kim Carnes • Bob Dylan • Ray Charles
This song made history back in the day. It applies to today more than back then for me. Everyone in this video is a legend. Many have since passed away unfortunately, but they will never be forgotten. Glad to see young people enjoying songs made before they were even born. Love to see it! ❤
There will NEVER be a collection of artist so great as this was. Its a lineup of the best of the best. No egos, no nothing but coming together for a great cause. I don't believe this will ever happen again. I sooooo took growing up in the 80's and the music that was produced for granted. I don't care what you genre of music is, the 80's had it all.
IMPORTANT to remember that the music industry has taken a HUGE HIT in the advent of the internet, UA-cam etc... Music doesn't have huge stars like in the past
Lionel Richie and Michael wrote it in 2 days and it was conducted by Quincy Jones recorded the night of the AMA's in 1985 shot in one night. In fact Michael was not at the AMA's setting up to record, Lionel was HOSTING the AMA's and ones like Springsteen flew in that night from NYC after wrapping a world tour. Like he put down his guitar, took a shower and got on a plane from NYC to LAt o sing for another almost 12 hours. With few exceptions almost everyone there was AT the AMA's a few hours before so by the time they were done some of these people have been up and performing, presenting, or otherwise involved in the AMA's for the last 24 hours. It was the only time they were all in the same city and tour schedules didn't conflict and they had 1 night to get it done so people could get back on their schedules. Oh and they did it for free- no one got paid for this.
She was my first celebrity crush. When I was 12 I got the She's So Unusual album, and I told my mom I was gonna marry Cindi Lauper some day. I just loved her spunky and quirky personality.
These are some of the greatest songwriters of all time. White, black, or otherwise. I suggest you look up every artist and feature them because they picked the greats for this and what they did for Africa was amazing and it kick started these concerts for charity ACROSS THE WORLD.
The UK is actually what kick started this (Bon Geldof) but the American version is what exploded (understandably so) and had the ripple effect all over the globe.
James Ingram and Dionne Warwick’s performances really stood out as I watched this, after so many years. It’s also amazing to realize how many of these artists are no longer with us.
You could make a reaction to every singer here and it would be the legends of that time in music. Getting all these people together was a magical experience and history was made here.
🌎🌍 White guy here who grew up in rural Australia here and I’m naming MJ and Lionel (who both wrote the song), Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Ray Charles, Quincy Jones, Dionne Warwick, Harry Belafonte, the rest of the Jackson 5 AND Latoya! Not to mention the other legends on there, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Billy Joel, Cyndi Lauper, Bruce Springsteen, Kim Carnes, Huey Lewis, Daryl Hall, Steve Perry, Willie Nelson, Kenny Logins and on and on into the talent stratosphere. Huge props for clocking Kenny Rogers in there btw! There are many of the greatest artists of all time on this track. You guys are younger than me so I get it that a lot of those faces didn’t spark recognition, but your reaction made me feel so good anyway. Music is the ultimate. This single raised millions for famine relief in Africa, and has raised vastly more for humanitarian causes since. It created a global moment that followed an earlier similar global moment for Africa created by British artists, the equally Allstar single, Band Aid’s Do They Know It’s Christmas. We Are The World’s group USA for Africa is comprised of all North American artists, but the title of the collective actually stands for United Support of Artists for Africa. The great Harry Belafonte instigated the whole project after being inspired by Band Aid, which was organised by Bob Geldof. This is important stuff. It’s great to see you all exploring it. And now I REALLY want to see you react to songs from every artist on this.
Update! I’ve just learned that even though the song raised millions for famine relief in Ethiopia, the story of getting the money TO the people in need is far more complex. There’s a current documentary about the project, which I hope will cover both its success and the tragic irony of what came after.
Feel blessed to have grown up during this time frame. The best ever music came from the 70's and 80's. Explore more from that time. You will not regret it.
The greatest selfless collaboration of the greatest artists of a generation. I highly recommend Googling the list of artists in the order they appear, watching it again, then watching videos of each artist you are not familiar with to appreciate their individual talents. Thank you so much for reacting to this! It brought be me SO much joy! An incredible cause in the mid 80’s during my youth. THANK YOU!
Tina Turner, Bruce Springtine,Paul Simon next to Kenny Rogers,Dionne Warwick,QuinsyJones directing everyone.All this people were famous singers during this time this song is sung.They are all singing legends.
Stevie's voice is the sound of love. I remember reading an interview of Michael Bolton one time before and he said that Stevie's voice is what he would imagine God's voice sounding like. I was like, "wow, what a compliment."
I remember I was a junior in high school when this song came out. The few radio stations we had in the area played it and played it and played it. That was when you could put your differences at the door and come together as one to do something. So incredible that 40 years later people still talk about❤
When Michael passed I was heartbroken, and his music was being played everywhere immediately....even before we knew officially that he passed, but the next morning when I drove to school ( I was in grad school) "We are the World" came on the radio and I broke down crying like I knew him.
Thanks for doing this one, guys. I remember when this song came out. Fun Fact: Apparently there was a sign posted outside the studio that said "Check your Ego at the door." You know there's a lot of talent in the room when Bette Midler and Harry Belafonte are in your lineup, and neither one gets a solo. God, what a great song. 🤗
Yeah, Prince was going to be a part of it and demanded a solo. Quincy told him that nobody demands solos. Prince was asked to not be a part of it then. That's why Quincy came up with that sign and put it up on that door. So Prince inspired that message. And I can see why! He had a *major* ego! LOL
What most now don't realize, Harry Belafonte & Ken Kragen were in charge of this project. It was Harry's idea. After Band Aid's song, Harry felt the US should do something too. He contacted Ken (talent manager, TV producer, activist & fundraiser). They secured the talent, facilities, staff, etc. Ken contacted Bob Geldof, plus Lionel Richie, Kenny Rogers & Kim Carnes (Ken managed all 3), Stevie Wonder & Quincy Jones. Quincy brought MJ on. It was Harry & Ken who chose Lionel & MJ to write it. Then, word spread quickly & Ken said he ended up having to turn away dozens of artists. So, Harry could have definitely had a solo if he wanted, but to make the most money, they put the focus on the popular stars of the day.
This was the BEST song ever written in the history of music. Fellas just to let yall know 8000 stations played this song at the same time across the world
Man o man, seeing MJ makes me cry every time 🌹 he is missed I’m so glad y’all heard this one 🙏🏾 So many of these legends we’ve lost. One of the best songs EVER MADE!
Respect for all of these iconic talented performers! You just don't know or realize how much these individuals influenced music, the very music we listen to today !
“We Are the World” Soloists (in order of appearance) Time codes indicate start of first solo Lionel Richie - 0:26 Stevie Wonder - 0:39 Paul Simon - 0:43 Kenny Rogers - 0:53 James Ingram - 0:59 Tina Turner - 1:06 Billy Joel - 1:13 Michael Jackson - 1:19 Diana Ross - 1:32 Dionne Warwick - 1:48 Willie Nelson - 2:02 Al Jarreau - 2:09 Bruce Springsteen - 2:15 Kenny Loggins - 2:21 Steve Perry - 2:28 Daryl Hall - 2:36 Huey Lewis - 2:48 Cyndi Lauper - 2:54 Kim Carnes - 3:02 Bob Dylan - 3:48 Ray Charles - 4:27 “We Are the World” Chorus (alphabetically) Dan Aykroyd Harry Belafonte Lindsey Buckingham Mario Cipollina Johnny Colla Sheila E. Bob Geldof Bill Gibson Chris Hayes Sean Hopper Jackie Jackson La Toya Jackson Marlon Jackson Randy Jackson Tito Jackson Waylon Jennings Bette Midler John Oates Jeffrey Osborne The Pointer Sisters Smokey Robinson “We Are the World” Instrumentalists David Paich - synthesizers Michael Boddicker - synthesizers, programming Paulinho da Costa - percussion Phil Collins - percussion Louis Johnson - synth bass Michael Omartian - keyboards Greg Phillinganes - keyboards John Robinson - drums This article was updated on January 28, 2022 from a previous version. In this article: Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Fleetwood Mac, Hall & Oates, Journey, Paul Simon
I'm 51 as well. This song brought tears to my eyes back then as a 14 yr old and still does after watching this. The 80s was the best for music, no auto tune, just pure talent. And the best time to grow up without being coddled. The younger generation today are to dang sensitive. To much video games instead of playing outside and roughing it. Miss those days.
I seriously doubt these guys could be quiet enough to listen to this recording in it's entirety. They lack the basic skill set to sit still and listen. Sorry.
My favourite parts are Springsteen and Wonder duetting together and James Ingram’s last chorus. The part were he says “so let’s start giving” always gives me chills.
@@saritatambayong4002 Sometimes I think Cyndi kind of got overlooked among all the other female artists of her day, especially with how Madonna pretty much owned the 80s. But she's an incredibly talented and versatile artist.
Beautiful song. Generation X here. This song touched my life and brought awareness to me about some issues that were foreign to me. We are the world and it's important we know what the whole world goes through so we can pray for the issues specifically. Prayer is powerful 🙏
everybody on this track is a legend, even in choir part the ones who didn't get solos are all legendary. they all put there egos aside and donated their time and talent to try to feed hungry people.
At the time i was a teenager living in Serbia and was awake for 2 days just watching concert for Africa. Some amizing singers from all over the world. It was eppic at the time. 😊 You should find and watch the whole cincert and all the countries who participated. Oh man, so many greats but for me Steve Wonder and Ray Charles aaaaaaaaah
Born in 1970 I grew up on every single one of these legends and it breaks my heart that some are now gone and many are soon to follow. I remember some as young adults singing on tv and the radio. Dionne Warwick ❤️ Tina.. this is real pure talent every one not like the fake stuff today and altered voice.
I still remember watching this on TV during the telethon. IT was absolutely amazing seeing all these artists that basically everyone listened to come together and collaborate on this.
This song does something to me everytime. I remember when this song came out when I was a child. We need more of this love and harmony today in 2022 and beyond
I was 28 with two very small children when this came out and I loved each and every one of these singers! This song was absolutely epic! Such talent! I feel so blessed to have grown up with these singers!
PLEASE UNDERSTAND THAT EVERY SINGER ON THAT SONG IS A LEGEND!! EACH OF THEM WERE AT THE TOP OF THE CHARTS AT THIS TIME!!
Except Dan Akroyd lol. But yeah everyone else was a bona-fide star, even the ones who didn't have a verse of their own like Smokey Robinson, Lindsay Buckingham, The Pointer Sisters, the Jacksons, Jeffrey Osbourne, Sheila E, Quincy Jones....GOATs!
@@arlopear7136 he was well established as an actor and very successful...he didn't sing any lines on the song, I'm speaking of those who had a main line to sing.
He was there as a Blues Brother
When America was so STUNNING ❤️
Caps lock
Even as a non-American I know all these artists. Just to be clear, every single artist there is a legend. A legend that every American should know, no matter what age.
Don't forget Canadian Dan Akroyd!!!
And some are no longer with us today, its something to look back on and see all the great singers in different kinds of music come together for a great cause.
Me too
Facts.
They did not seem to know Tina Turner, ouch.
Lionel Richie - 0:26
Stevie Wonder - 0:39
Paul Simon - 0:43
Kenny Rogers - 0:53
James Ingram - 0:59
Tina Turner - 1:06
Billy Joel - 1:13
Michael Jackson - 1:19
Diana Ross - 1:32
Dionne Warwick - 1:48
Willie Nelson - 2:02
Al Jarreau - 2:09
Bruce Springsteen - 2:15
Kenny Loggins - 2:21
Steve Perry - 2:28
Daryl Hall - 2:36
Huey Lewis - 2:48
Cyndi Lauper - 2:54
Kim Carnes - 3:02
Bob Dylan - 3:48
Ray Charles - 4:27 Some artists not mentioned LaToya Jackson, Sheila E, Dan Aykroyd, a few of the Jackson brothers, Lindsey Buckingham and many more…
Harry Belafonte
Tina turner I can't remember the time stamp
I tweeted a joke about Al Jarreau on this vid and one tv responded about their doc on Al then twitter banned em right after
Dang! Good Job breakin it down!
You only mentioned Daryl Hall, but I also saw John Oates from Hall and Oates
Growing up in the 1980s was the best generation for musical talent ever! I miss it. Today’s artists cannot it even compare on a pure talent level.
Sure was… across almost all genre’s…
Why don't American kids know this song??? I am from Africa and this is one of the most beautifully crafted songs of all time. LEGENDS!!!
Many of us do lol
I grew up listening to it and the story of how it came to be from my momma who was in high school when it was recorded… i have played it for my daughter but what 11 yr old actually listens to their moms music lol trust me there are American kids who do know this song
Some were not born then
Y'all just love generalizing ppl holy shit
Gen X and those older know it. Millennials and Gen Z don’t.
I can't believe they didn't know who Tina Turner, Dionne Warwick and so many other of the iconic singers were. All of them are iconic. Truly a timeless and classic song.
Just stupidity
@@deborahbailey4776 Like your comment?
I feel like they did know but wanted to play dumb for the camera
@@JojoBean-zo7nx I feel you're giving them far too much credit.
@@american_cosmic lol maybe so 😅
This is what REAL talent sounds like without auto tune. ❤
Te quiero mucho ❤
In one take. I love the fun fact that the sign on the entry said check your ego at the door and Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder said they would be driving anyone who didn’t follow this one rule home personally 😂❤
You do realize that a lot of the big mainstream artists that you probably have heard online only use auto tune because the sound engineers, and producers force them to right? They don’t do that by choice…..they forced to.
Yet Lionel decided to redo it with tons of autotune and it sucked.
before usa was ukraines puppet state
These were the top singers of the 80s. They made the song in one night to help starving children in Africa.
Most of them were legends, not '80s stars.
Shut up not Africa. Just Ethiopia southern region which suffered a severe drought and crop failure.
One Region of Ethiopia and not Africa which is an entire continent.
To understand... in the mid 80s, Africa was experiencing severe drought and famine. A group of British rockers lead by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure released a record (Do They Know its Christmas) with all proceeds going to famine relief in Africa. Then USA rockers lead by Harry Belafonte, Ken Kragen and Quincey Jones, recorded the video here with the same goal. The last effort was LIVE AID. This is a weekend concert televised from three continents. The Live Aid video of Queen you watched is from that concert. Phil Collins flew on the SST Concord to all three continents and performed in USA, UK and Australia in the same concert. It was televised on MTV. Incredible concert. The finale song in the UK included Bob Geldof, David Bowie, Freddie Mercury and most of the huge array of rockers that performed throughout the weekend event. The videos of the Uk Christmas record and that finale are on You Tube.
They raised over $200 million and it was sent to Africa. Unfortunately it was intercepted by a dictator and terrorist group who used it for weapons against its own citizens.
Still... no generation before or after in music ever took on such a huge task which could have made a difference. Next to this, in 1986, you have Comic Relief USA by Robin Williams, Whoopi Goldberg and Billy Crystal. They raised OVER $50 million for the homeless in the USA. I am very proud to be part of the generation that gave so much to humankind. ✌🏻
We still have comic relief every year in the UK, do you guys still have it in America?
Under rated comment! Ty for enlightening me🥰 this was my generation too... hands across 🇺🇸 America was big as well. Proud for sure!
Don't forget "Farm Aid" that Willie Nelson had a hand in putting together to help US farmers.
@@humafayyaz5754 I don’t think so. Whoopi and Billy have their own projects and Robin is gone. Not aware anyone else took up those roles.
@@jayniac7874 I was just going through a box and I found my Hands Across America confirmation for my spot in line. :D
You'll never get that many talented people on one song as long as we live. That was epic.🎯
Every artist in this was purely talented no autotune or anything
They didn't even know who Tina Turner was!
@@michaelasay8587 Yeah that was my biggest surprise. I must be very old. Tina is more recognizable than pretty much anyone alive but they didn't even flinch. Such an epic group of people from a bygone era of real music.
Watch the one from the 2000s era for Haiti 😍🔥 stackload of talent on that one aswell
Such talent no longer exists unfortunately. 😢
That Stevie and Bruce duo is iconic, still gives me goose bumps
Every freaking TIME! ❤️🎶❤️🎶
The fact that you guys had no idea who these legends are make me even prouder 😊😊 as a non American 😅😅 we grew up on these in the Caribbean 🇯🇲🇯🇲
same in ireland
I'm American. I feel like so many Americans are poorly educated. Even poor people in England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales....are much better educated than Americans. Disgraceful. Sad. This group of young men exemplifies my sentiment
This song raised $75 million dollars for Africa. All the singers are legends.
i wonder if most of the money actually reached and helped people on the ground...i doubt it tbh
@@teeademost of the money did go to the charity. I think this is the only charity where most of the money goes to where its supposed to go.
Just pay attention and show some respect. All these performers are LEGENDS!
Legends of legends!
They’re young but they clearly have good taste .
@@brandydavine4194 They can tell what music is good. They are fun though! "Smile"
I agree I was 15 when this came out this was the time when Mtv came out with music videos
We are so luck to have lived in that era was a difficult world then
Years later, and I still recognize 90% of the musical artists. These artists weren't just ordinary musical stars, they were musical legends across different genres.
Yes, it's really amazing how so many superstars was able to check their egos and cooperate in a single studio to make this timeless song.
US new generations really don't know about these hits? I'm 17 years old and I've listened to these people my entire childhood. Specially couldn't believe you guys didn't recognise Tina Turner!!
Love from Latin América
My brothers, I highly suggest educating yourself about these great artists. Legends who served the music industry with distinction.
Love from South Africa
you speak truth. These are people to be proud of. Learn to respect quality and expect more and strive to be the best we can be.
They were not alive when most of these artists were in their prime
@@tracyfields4261 No excuse. I wasn't alive when Mozart or Beethoven were kickin' but I know their music. I blame their parents, or their grandparents.
Hi South Africa. From Belleville Michigan USA. This is from my days since I’m over 50. We still love you ❤️.
Amen. You guys gotta know who Tina Turner is when you see her
No egos, No pretentions, No need to be center of attention, just amazing singers at the top of their careers, singing simply for compassion & love ❤ Such a wonderful initiative that raised a lot of money to help those in need ❤
Yes and that what the world needs today
And why Q told them all to leave their egos at the door when they came in to record!!
❤
Imagine trying to get that kind of talent together now - to drop everything and show up and no one is a headliner…as a teen it was awesome to see; as an adult now I understand the complexity of what they did and am an even bigger fan due to their compassion
And you forgot sandyleewhite no auto tune their real voices 😘
Doubt there will ever be that much raw talent in the same room ever again. This was done after music awards they all checked their attitudes at the door and stayed all night to make it. On the morning of April 5, 1985, over 8,000 radio stations simultaneously broadcast the song around the world at the same time. Makes me feel old but this song is one of the best to come out of the 80's.
Well said,and to think that these guys didn't recognize half of the stars there,Shameful, Something of this quality will never happen again.
@@andrewmccormack4295 please forgive them. They're young. These Artists bring tears to my eyes. The sound is Magical
I might be remembering wrong, but didn't we all stand outside holding hands. Wait, I looked it up. Hands across America was sparked because of this. I think we sang this song when we did it. I was pretty young so the memory isn't very sharp.
They just copied what the uk did a year or two before with a song called do they know its christmas which was done to raise money for ethiopia.
@@olamide180 Regardless, it is historical and made a mark on the world. Copied or not.
I remember when this was released. In Canada where I live our musicians did the same thing. The severe famine in Africa at the time caused the British musicians to react to help them, it then spread to the US and Canada. This is truly a wonderful song. All those wonderful voices and singers. Jackson, Warwick, Ritchie, etc....Bruce, Stevie, Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers...
Whitney Houston was not in this group of singers, but her aunt Dionne Warwick was one of the legend singing a solo here. This was recorded after an award show, that's how all of these folks were able to be in one place at one time. You have R&B, Country, Rock, Folk and the Jazz genres of music represented by this gathering of vocal All Stars..
Dionne Warwick & Whitney Houston were 1st cousins. Dionne is 23 years older than Whitney because Dionne's mother, Lee (born 1920), had Dionne when she was only 20 (1940). Whitney’s mother, Cissy (born 1933), was the youngest of 8 children & didn’t have Whitney till she was 30 (1963).
I was surprised they couldn't I.D. Diana Ross. Speaking of legendary....We wouldn't have had MJ without Diana.
@@wnsafford1854 I heard their moms sang background for Elvis at one point
@@RockFan89 Dionne’s mother, Lee, didn’t sing with Elvis. Whitney's mother, Grammy award winning Cissy Houston, did, but for just 5 weeks. Lee & Cissy started in their parent’s gospel group. In the late 1950s, Cissy, Dionne & Dee Dee (Dionne’s sister) formed the group, The Gospelaires, which evolved into The Sweet Inspirations (after Dionne & Dee Dee went solo). “The Sweets” backed some major singers, including Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Van Morrison, even Jimi Hendrix, & of course, Dionne Warwick. The Sweets got the gig with Elvis in 69 (& stayed till his death), but by then, Cissy had a solo contract. She did just the initial gig (1 week of rehearsals & 4 weeks of shows, ending Aug. 28, 1969). She left to work on her solo career & be home with her children. Of her brief time with Elvis, she said; “He was wonderful” “I loved him” “He was such a gentleman” & “so good looking, you didn’t even want to look nowhere else.”
@@wnsafford1854 Ahh ok. cool
EVERY time Dionne Warwick starts singing my jaw drops. Her voice is just perfection. Love her. Great song
This was put together by Michael Jackson. They got together right after the Grammy Awards. Everyone agreed that all proceeds would go to help Africa’s hunger.
I thought is was interesting that the guy's instinctively connected Dionne and Whitney simply thru voice alone, without realizing (it seems) that the two are cousins.
@@veeganboy The resemblance in their facial features are equally as uncanny as their vocals.
You can tell her and Whitney are kin
@@janehamm7465This was actually put together by Harry Belafonte, Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson co wrote it, and they got together after the American Music Awards of 1985 to record this
Who has failed these children? every single person in this video is a legend. I don’t understand , when we were kids we knew the legends from our parents generation and beyond as well as whatever was current. How do not know Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen, Dion Warwick or Billy Joel
BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT SERIOUS ABOUT REACTING TO THESE VIDEOS! THEY JUST TRYING TO GET VIEWS! MY SON IS 17...YOUNGER THAN THEM AND I MADE SURE HE KNEW THIS SONG!!!
@@divadoll1975 just cause they popular doesn’t mean you HAVE to have known them, they just vibing finding out about old music learn to love and appreciate
😂😂
THIS! I mean I was far too young and we didn't have internet or anything close but I knew who Frank, Dean, Sammy Davis (ratpack) Elvis, Tom Jones, Chuck Berry, Tony Bennett, even Perry Cuomo and that era were...I mean, WTF
Dionne*
I'm just 18, and i grow up listening and singing to this song. It's a treasure, i'm brazilian, but i know every single artist and line of this song! It's really one of the best songs ever, and the message is amazing and beautiful.
Good on you ! Keep listening to the greats! Peace and Blessings to you and yours!
@@wendyryder2708 thank you!! wishing you all the best things to you too! 🤍
I don't think people really appreciate how awesome this recording really was. With the exception of Lionel and Michael all of them learned the song, their parts, and harmonies etc and recorded in what night. And the lead voices couldn't be more different. Quincy Jones needs so much more credit for this
The man is an icon too. I loved how they had that phrase, "Leave your ego at the door" when they all showed up for the recording.
they gathered late after an awards show and worked on it well into the night. a nice joint gift of time and talent for a good cause
And don’t know Tina!
@sheilaholmes996 I know. Damn shame. All they know is sampling. Don't even know who the artists that the copy from...
Growing up, I knew my generation's music and my parents' generation music.
Nowadays, everything has such a short life. Short attention spans, too.
Ray Charles and stevie Wonder did it too
How blessed we were to have grown up listening to the music of these iconic artists.
Absolutely!
You know what...i don't want to sound evil but i'm actually a little relieved that most of these great artists aren't around anymore to see how stupid and embarrassing the world has become.
Yes! 👏
I end up in tears almost every time I hear this song. I was in elementary school when this song came out and it was huge. As an adult looking back, it was monumental to get all of those artists in one place at one time to record that song. Them deciding to donate all profits was amazing. To say that I love this song is an understatement. It’s great to see some of my favorite artists who aren’t here anymore; especially MJ.
I was in the first grade. I remember this too well.
I was in 6th grade and I will always remember watching it on TV when they put it out for us to watch... I cried like a baby. My little girl heart got so moved by the energy and the sound of love coming from so many beautiful voices. We sang it walking through the school and couldn't wait to record it on Saturday morning. Kaycee Kasem top 100 countdown 😂❤❤❤ and now I'm crying hearing it and seeing their reactions. Priceless!
Me too! I was a little kid in the 80’s when this came out this was an anthem for us all. I’m a white male from Middle America, had a Michael Jackson Thriller poster on my wall as a kid. I listened to heavy metal, Motown, Oldies, Hard Rock, rock ballads, R&B, rap, etc. Nobody thought about race like they do now. What makes me sad is how humanity has lost the message of this song and now they’re being told to look at race first and above character. I refuse to look at race as modern progressives around the globe tell me I should, I look past that and see what type of person someone is in their heart and soul. That’s all that should ever matter. God bless!
It wasnt that amazing, they just copied what Bob geldoff done in the uk a year or two before with a song called "do they know its Christmas" wich was done to raise money for Ethiopia.
Looking at this makes me miss the 80s so much. I was about 7 when it came out.
Stevie blasted offfff!!!! Mike was incredible, its Mike!
Exceptional Artist!❤
The amount of talent you just watched is immeasurable. The Old school talent and the mix of personality will never be repeated. We lost some already, but they will always be remembered. ❤👏🏽
I'll be honest.. watching y'all reaction makes me simultaneously happy and sad.. sad that the artists on this album are all iconic in their own right and you can only identify a handful.. there's so much meaningful music from each and everyone of them that you've never heard.. on the flip side I'm happy to see y'all appreciate the different voice textures in this video also that you're willing to listen to and honestly react to music from my generation.. thank you
Although most of them have big catalogs, Kim Carnes was basically a one-hit wonder.
They didn't recognised Tina Turner... 😟
I feel the same way. It's pretty sad to not be aware of what an iconic song and moment in music history this was. I cringed when they didn't know Tina Turner and kept asking why Whitney wasn't there.
I was sad they didn’t know Tina Turner!
So true. Almost disrespectful and really sad.
The 80's was a great time. Music was amazing.
the freakin best....all downhill since
As long as I live 80s music will always be my favorite decade of music
I didn't grow up in the 80s, I grew up in the 90s and honestly I listen to songs from 50s to present day and 80s is by far my favourite followed closely by the 70s. The 80s produced so much great music from very talented artists.
I remember when this first came on the world stopped our family was right in front of the the television ❤️
@@tiffanycurtis4794 me too Tiff! what an epic time!!!
this song will never not give me chills. It’s my childhood and I remember watching this air live on tv. I know every face and every word. good memories
I can’t even begin to express the amount of talent that is in that room right there .. this was a huge huge deal when it came out for aids. A room full of legends.
This was for Ethiopia. That’s What Friends Are For was for AIDS!
It came out for relief for the famine in Ethiopia
@@TheDivayenta OK you don’t have to shout I made a mistake lol
@@Kronicdice23 no shout. AIDS is usually in caps.
Didn't know the Cartier Family were that talented wow
This song meant so much to the world. I remember when it came out. So many GOATS! I believe MJ helped write it.
thats correct Tanya
Nope, only to Americans, but then again, it does say "We are the world", so I guess Americans have a heart time with that concept "world" being not synonimus with America. I mean they are the only country that have a national sports competition and then call it "the world series" even though not a single other country is involved. I mean, it sounds like someone overcompensating for a well earned inferiority complex.
Michael didn't help write it, he did write it. He asked Lionel Ritchie to help him with a verse of some sort that he was having trouble with. That is why Lionel got credit for writing the song. From the minds
and hearts of two great artists 💜
@@voiceover2191 have a heart time? Idk what that means.
@@voiceover2191 synonymous*…MLB has a team in Canada and the players are from all over the world.
i grew up a 80s kid and by 89 i was starting high school. music from this era was the best no autotune just real talent but they are right every singer is iconic and will live forever
This song still gives me chills. At the time the starvation in Africa was atrocious and all of these singers gave their time to make millions for a cause . They are all legends and wow look when people only played instruments without auto tune etc.
me too!!!
Me to, came out in 1985, I was 19 the year it can out, yeah I’m old lol, but still love good music
Yes thanks to Sir Bob geldoff and the uk for coming up with the whole idea.
I just saw Lionel in concert on 11/11/22 in Atlanta. He performed this solo and had over 60 thousand people singing with their cellphone lights on at Falcon's stadium. It was incredible! One of those moments in my life, that I'll never forget
Just imagine back in the 80's before we had cell phones , everyone in the crowd would hold up their lighters to get that effect .
I miss the 80s... what a wonderful time to live in.
😢
My birth year 1984 ❤
True that.
What Stevie does is simply magical
Stevies part is my highlight in this classical masterpiece
Reportedly, Bob Dylan was having some difficulty with his part. He requested working with Stevie one on one. In less than 30 minutes they had figured his part out. Stevie actually sang to Bob how he thought his part should sound. Bob went to Stevie for assistance. (Bob knew what he was doing) I know this to be a true story. Bob was not ashamed of it. He felt very out of place amidst this degree of artistry. Stevie worked with him and really helped him out. Bob nailed his part!!!
Listen more and pay some respect. these are icons, legends of music! The song itself is a treasure, the message and the reason it was composed.
This is what this generation needs. All these artist from different genres coming together for one purpose. We could only be so lucky to have such an iconic moment in music history.
They’ll never be another moment like this in History! All the Singers were told to “ check egos” at the door! Even the “biggest” obligated and went GREAT!!!!❤❤❤
Amen!
Weird Al could come and represent any musical genre!! He and his band have played every genre
I am from Africa and I know ALL these artists, names and songs. How can American (African American for that matter), not know these artists and the contribution that this song (through Michael, Lionel and Quincy) made to the world? This song broke records.
To be fair they all recognize those three people
They didn't know who Quincy Jones is.
Because they are Young and also, sorry to say, Kind of Babies, Not knowing Kind of nothing... When in time they grow, hopefully they gain some More knowledge, Not only in music, but also in general knowledge how the world is 'working', asking the right questions. All in all, they seem to be good Guys, so they can make IT...
Because maybe cause it isn't there kind of music🤯 and drum rollll they are young🙄
I have a feeling these boys listen to a lot of things on the Internet rather than vinyl records that you used to be able to buy at the record store. So they buy what’s popular as opposed to what you would find at the back rack in a record store. Those days are gone and with that goes a lot of finding things on your own.. the Internet and the radio taken over all imagination for young people
WOW I'm 70 and you all really make me feel OLD! This is one of the greatest assembly of greats there has ever been! Pay attention to the "back ground" singers - Bette Midler, Jackson 5 and more! I remember when Michael Jackson got with Quincy Jones (the man conducting this!) to raise money for Children in Africa it was amazing and obviously a few of these people are gone now quite a few! It's just simply amazing! This was in 1988 I believe - even before Whitney and Celine .. this is magical really!
It came out in 1985
One of the greatest musical collaborations I can ever recall. I can still remember when this premiered on MTV. WHEN MTV played videos all day and night.
There was so much talent in that studio. I was 4 when the song came out. The duet between Stevie Wonder and Bruce Springsteen always gives me chills.
I can't listen to this without getting teary eyed. I was young school boy when the famine hit Ethiopia. We collected money for the relief effort, and then this song came along. It helped so much! Awareness of the situation was truly exploded by this, and it got people donating.
Read your comment while holding back tears 🥹
@@Stardust414 💗
I get such a kick out of this. They are so young and have no idea who these singers are! I love seeing them enjoy all the artists!
This one of the greatest songs of all time and there may never be another like it. I can remember as a member of the gospel choir in high school and we performed this song. There is history of why this song was created and was written to raise funds for Africa. The population was starving and no one was immune. Men, women & children died because of illness, dehydration, and starvation. This is where my faith in humanity derived from. The artists that performed "We are the world" not to benefit financially because the money raised went to help those in Africa. Much respect is due to the artists and their gifts.
One of the biggest factors was an epic drought. There was some farming, and livestock in even the most remote of villages, and, of course, hunting. Now think about how the drought affected all of that. No water to drink, or tightly rationing what there was. No water for crops or livestock. With no water the animals that were normally hunted for food either died quickly or migrated to areas in search of water. It was like the perfect storm of bad events.
Its not much of a story about how it was created, they just stole the idea of the uk who came up with it, they relesed a song called do they know its christmas a year or two before this to raise money for the famine in africa, simon le bon, u2, george michael, boy george, sting where just some of the names in the studio at the time, if you watch that then youll see this is just a straight copy of that idea.
@@olamide180 Who cares who originally came up with an idea of helping a charity? In reality the one your talking about copied giving to charity too. People have been giving to the less fortunate for years. Get over it!
@@elliceserpico711 Well the starving people in Ethiopia surely cared. What a stupid comment. What was copied was the idea of bringing music star's together on one song at the same time to raise money for the famine in Africa.
This was a HUGE deal when it was released. There was a severe famine in Ethopia in the early 80s, and the project originated with the late Harry Belafonte and Quincy Jones as a means to raise awareness and money to provide relief.
The song itself was written by MJ and Ritchie. The amount of talent on his song is absolutely INSANE. It was like a Who's Who of rock and pop stars in the early 80s. Somehow even Dan Aykroyd snuck in there. Also present were five of the Jackson siblings: Jackie, La Toya, Marlon, Randy, and Tito. Michael really wanted Prince, but for unknown reasons (ranging from Prince not wanting to record with other acts, to not wanting to participate with Bob Geldorf specifically) he backed out (His Royal Purpleness did contribute a bonus track for the album release). Ritchie also invited Eddie Murphy, but Murphy was tied up with filming his video for Party All The Time. There were some FIFTY other artists who turned up as well, but had to be turned away.
As for who some of the people you didn't recognize were, these are the soloists in the order in which they first appear:
• Lionel Richie
• Stevie Wonder
• Paul Simon
• Kenny Rogers
• James Ingram
• Tina Turner
• Billy Joel
• Michael Jackson
• Diana Ross
• Dionne Warwick
• Willie Nelson
• Al Jarreau
• Bruce Springsteen
• Kenny Loggins
• Steve Perry
• Daryl Hall
• Huey Lewis
• Cyndi Lauper
• Kim Carnes
• Bob Dylan
• Ray Charles
Thank you for all that vital info. Much appreciated.
Thank you!
almost none of the money made it to the starving people. It was taken by African governments.
I can't fault you youngsters for not knowing who a lot of these people are. Just be aware you're in the presence of greatness.
Definitely
I could understand why they had no idea who some of these people were but Tina Turner and thinking it was Jamie Fox killed me
Not knowing Tina Turner & Dionne Warrick while being “Black American” should be a crime..
A little CURIOSITY would go a long way, if you're actually interested in learning about music, especially LEGENDS of the art...
Im so glad i was born in 67 and experienced the best music ever created!!! Enjoy guys!!!!!!!
This song made history back in the day. It applies to today more than back then for me. Everyone in this video is a legend. Many have since passed away unfortunately, but they will never be forgotten. Glad to see young people enjoying songs made before they were even born. Love to see it! ❤
Stevie Wonder is one of the most incredible singers of All-Time!!! A voice that ppl don’t even try to replicate bc nobody hits it like Stevie does!!!!
There will NEVER be a collection of artist so great as this was. Its a lineup of the best of the best. No egos, no nothing but coming together for a great cause. I don't believe this will ever happen again. I sooooo took growing up in the 80's and the music that was produced for granted. I don't care what you genre of music is, the 80's had it all.
IMPORTANT to remember that the music industry has taken a HUGE HIT in the advent of the internet, UA-cam etc... Music doesn't have huge stars like in the past
Lionel Richie and Michael wrote it in 2 days and it was conducted by Quincy Jones recorded the night of the AMA's in 1985 shot in one night. In fact Michael was not at the AMA's setting up to record, Lionel was HOSTING the AMA's and ones like Springsteen flew in that night from NYC after wrapping a world tour. Like he put down his guitar, took a shower and got on a plane from NYC to LAt o sing for another almost 12 hours. With few exceptions almost everyone there was AT the AMA's a few hours before so by the time they were done some of these people have been up and performing, presenting, or otherwise involved in the AMA's for the last 24 hours. It was the only time they were all in the same city and tour schedules didn't conflict and they had 1 night to get it done so people could get back on their schedules. Oh and they did it for free- no one got paid for this.
So much talent in this song. It shook the world at that time and the meaning is timeless. Love Cyndi Lauper at 6:57!!
She was my first celebrity crush. When I was 12 I got the She's So Unusual album, and I told my mom I was gonna marry Cindi Lauper some day. I just loved her spunky and quirky personality.
What a collaboration of people and unique voices. This song was so LEGENDARY in the 80s and still today in 2023!!!!!
These are some of the greatest songwriters of all time. White, black, or otherwise. I suggest you look up every artist and feature them because they picked the greats for this and what they did for Africa was amazing and it kick started these concerts for charity ACROSS THE WORLD.
The UK is actually what kick started this (Bon Geldof) but the American version is what exploded (understandably so) and had the ripple effect all over the globe.
@@skay6454 Bob geldof orchestrated band aid and do they know it’s Christmas they have a whole uk version we are the world is the US version
@JustinDoesASMR25 Yes Bob Geldof started it. He was at this recording to remind the artists why they were there.
@@JustinDoesASMR25 Bob still kicked it all off
@@pr-tj5by you replying to something from 7 months ago
This was the best reaction you guys I am 55 I was real young when this happened.The lady in front is Tina Turner
MJ was a different level wasn't he. With all those superstars around him, I was so excited to see Michael like you guys!
James Ingram and Dionne Warwick’s performances really stood out as I watched this, after so many years. It’s also amazing to realize how many of these artists are no longer with us.
James Ingram is so under appreciated in this.
@@StacyLym He really struggles to stay in tune!!!
You could make a reaction to every singer here and it would be the legends of that time in music. Getting all these people together was a magical experience and history was made here.
🌎🌍 White guy here who grew up in rural Australia here and I’m naming MJ and Lionel (who both wrote the song), Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Ray Charles, Quincy Jones, Dionne Warwick, Harry Belafonte, the rest of the Jackson 5 AND Latoya! Not to mention the other legends on there, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Billy Joel, Cyndi Lauper, Bruce Springsteen, Kim Carnes, Huey Lewis, Daryl Hall, Steve Perry, Willie Nelson, Kenny Logins and on and on into the talent stratosphere. Huge props for clocking Kenny Rogers in there btw! There are many of the greatest artists of all time on this track.
You guys are younger than me so I get it that a lot of those faces didn’t spark recognition, but your reaction made me feel so good anyway. Music is the ultimate. This single raised millions for famine relief in Africa, and has raised vastly more for humanitarian causes since. It created a global moment that followed an earlier similar global moment for Africa created by British artists, the equally Allstar single, Band Aid’s Do They Know It’s Christmas. We Are The World’s group USA for Africa is comprised of all North American artists, but the title of the collective actually stands for United Support of Artists for Africa. The great Harry Belafonte instigated the whole project after being inspired by Band Aid, which was organised by Bob Geldof.
This is important stuff. It’s great to see you all exploring it. And now I REALLY want to see you react to songs from every artist on this.
Update! I’ve just learned that even though the song raised millions for famine relief in Ethiopia, the story of getting the money TO the people in need is far more complex. There’s a current documentary about the project, which I hope will cover both its success and the tragic irony of what came after.
I cry everytime I hear this. All these beautiful voices come together.
Feel blessed to have grown up during this time frame. The best ever music came from the 70's and 80's. Explore more from that time. You will not regret it.
The greatest selfless collaboration of the greatest artists of a generation. I highly recommend Googling the list of artists in the order they appear, watching it again, then watching videos of each artist you are not familiar with to appreciate their individual talents. Thank you so much for reacting to this! It brought be me SO much joy! An incredible cause in the mid 80’s during my youth. THANK YOU!
Tina Turner, Bruce Springtine,Paul Simon next to Kenny Rogers,Dionne Warwick,QuinsyJones directing everyone.All this people were famous singers during this time this song is sung.They are all singing legends.
Stevie's voice is the sound of love. I remember reading an interview of Michael Bolton one time before and he said that Stevie's voice is what he would imagine God's voice sounding like. I was like, "wow, what a compliment."
Big compliment from a guy that sounds pretty good himself
Critics said the same thing about Art Garfunkel ... "If Jesus sang this is what his voice would sound like". I can't disagree with either comment.
Artists back then didn’t use auto tune. They were the real thing live or in the studio. Talent
This song was played on darn near every radio station in the United States at the same time on purpose. All legends, all great voices
I remember I was a junior in high school when this song came out. The few radio stations we had in the area played it and played it and played it. That was when you could put your differences at the door and come together as one to do something. So incredible that 40 years later people still talk about❤
It is impossible to explain just how big of a deal this song was across all age groups. Nothing will ever be seen like this again.
When Michael passed I was heartbroken, and his music was being played everywhere immediately....even before we knew officially that he passed, but the next morning when I drove to school ( I was in grad school) "We are the World" came on the radio and I broke down crying like I knew him.
Thanks for doing this one, guys. I remember when this song came out.
Fun Fact: Apparently there was a sign posted outside the studio that said "Check your Ego at the door." You know there's a lot of talent in the room when Bette Midler and Harry Belafonte are in your lineup, and neither one gets a solo.
God, what a great song. 🤗
Yeah, Prince was going to be a part of it and demanded a solo. Quincy told him that nobody demands solos. Prince was asked to not be a part of it then. That's why Quincy came up with that sign and put it up on that door. So Prince inspired that message. And I can see why! He had a *major* ego! LOL
What most now don't realize, Harry Belafonte & Ken Kragen were in charge of this project. It was Harry's idea. After Band Aid's song, Harry felt the US should do something too. He contacted Ken (talent manager, TV producer, activist & fundraiser). They secured the talent, facilities, staff, etc. Ken contacted Bob Geldof, plus Lionel Richie, Kenny Rogers & Kim Carnes (Ken managed all 3), Stevie Wonder & Quincy Jones. Quincy brought MJ on. It was Harry & Ken who chose Lionel & MJ to write it. Then, word spread quickly & Ken said he ended up having to turn away dozens of artists. So, Harry could have definitely had a solo if he wanted, but to make the most money, they put the focus on the popular stars of the day.
This was the BEST song ever written in the history of music. Fellas just to let yall know 8000 stations played this song at the same time across the world
i know. i was listening to it when it happened. april 5, 1985 at 10:50 am.
To help them understand, that’s like all UA-cam channels or all Spotify or whatever simultaneously playing it at the same time!
@@joelanderos23 It was so great. I remember it like it was yesterday!
Man o man, seeing MJ makes me cry every time 🌹 he is missed
I’m so glad y’all heard this one 🙏🏾
So many of these legends we’ve lost. One of the best songs EVER MADE!
Almost 40 years later and I still get excited every time I see this video. I can name every artist. Amazing voices and talents.
They were all heavy hitters on this song. Every one of them could sing. Respect to all of these legends❤.
Children of the world says a lot 😊i enjoy your channel guys and u change of thought in everything coudos from Australia
That Michael Jackson voice is just unmatched! These were true singers here. Can sing with or without music!
Even amongst the legends…he was different! I’m convinced he was an Alien😂how is he a step above the best😂
Tbh I feel like Stevie had the best performance in that song😭
Respect for all of these iconic talented performers! You just don't know or realize how much these individuals influenced music, the very music we listen to today !
Legends!!!! Thanks guys for watching this! It meant so much for us to see this in the 80s when we (Gen X ) were kids. ❤
Yes!
Such a huge gathering of legendary talent!
Gen X ❤️🙌
Gen X here too
Word Up brother or sister.
To the young man on the right, all of the singers donated their time & talent for a worthy cause. Judging the singers is unseemly.
Just listen to this song all the way through.. I was 14 years old (now 51), and it still captures my heart.❤
“We Are the World” Soloists (in order of appearance)
Time codes indicate start of first solo
Lionel Richie - 0:26
Stevie Wonder - 0:39
Paul Simon - 0:43
Kenny Rogers - 0:53
James Ingram - 0:59
Tina Turner - 1:06
Billy Joel - 1:13
Michael Jackson - 1:19
Diana Ross - 1:32
Dionne Warwick - 1:48
Willie Nelson - 2:02
Al Jarreau - 2:09
Bruce Springsteen - 2:15
Kenny Loggins - 2:21
Steve Perry - 2:28
Daryl Hall - 2:36
Huey Lewis - 2:48
Cyndi Lauper - 2:54
Kim Carnes - 3:02
Bob Dylan - 3:48
Ray Charles - 4:27
“We Are the World” Chorus (alphabetically)
Dan Aykroyd
Harry Belafonte
Lindsey Buckingham
Mario Cipollina
Johnny Colla
Sheila E.
Bob Geldof
Bill Gibson
Chris Hayes
Sean Hopper
Jackie Jackson
La Toya Jackson
Marlon Jackson
Randy Jackson
Tito Jackson
Waylon Jennings
Bette Midler
John Oates
Jeffrey Osborne
The Pointer Sisters
Smokey Robinson
“We Are the World” Instrumentalists
David Paich - synthesizers
Michael Boddicker - synthesizers, programming
Paulinho da Costa - percussion
Phil Collins - percussion
Louis Johnson - synth bass
Michael Omartian - keyboards
Greg Phillinganes - keyboards
John Robinson - drums
This article was updated on January 28, 2022 from a previous version.
In this article: Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Fleetwood Mac, Hall & Oates, Journey, Paul Simon
52 year eternal+
I'm 51 as well. This song brought tears to my eyes back then as a 14 yr old and still does after watching this. The 80s was the best for music, no auto tune, just pure talent. And the best time to grow up without being coddled. The younger generation today are to dang sensitive. To much video games instead of playing outside and roughing it. Miss those days.
I seriously doubt these guys could be quiet enough to listen to this recording in it's entirety. They lack the basic skill set to sit still and listen. Sorry.
I'm 74 y/o
My favourite parts are Springsteen and Wonder duetting together and James Ingram’s last chorus. The part were he says “so let’s start giving” always gives me chills.
They sang the hell out of this song!!!!!
Wonder &Springsteen my favorites too
Mine is actually Cindy Laupers. And i dont really like her that much 😅
@@saritatambayong4002 Sometimes I think Cyndi kind of got overlooked among all the other female artists of her day, especially with how Madonna pretty much owned the 80s. But she's an incredibly talented and versatile artist.
@@Ambaryerno in the 80s Madonna and Cindy where like coke and Pepsi
I can't wait for these folks to discover each of these genius artists. They are all remarkable in their own ways.
My son agrees that my generation had the best music.
Beautiful song. Generation X here. This song touched my life and brought awareness to me about some issues that were foreign to me. We are the world and it's important we know what the whole world goes through so we can pray for the issues specifically. Prayer is powerful 🙏
everybody on this track is a legend, even in choir part the ones who didn't get solos are all legendary. they all put there egos aside and donated their time and talent to try to feed hungry people.
I think Cyndi Lauper was the basic newcomer amongst all of the others.
This song brings me to tears all these years later!! A track full of legends.
🔥🔥❤ this takes me back. So many great memories!
At the time i was a teenager living in Serbia and was awake for 2 days just watching concert for Africa. Some amizing singers from all over the world. It was eppic at the time. 😊
You should find and watch the whole cincert and all the countries who participated.
Oh man, so many greats but for me Steve Wonder and Ray Charles aaaaaaaaah
Born in 1970 I grew up on every single one of these legends and it breaks my heart that some are now gone and many are soon to follow. I remember some as young adults singing on tv and the radio. Dionne Warwick ❤️ Tina.. this is real pure talent every one not like the fake stuff today and altered voice.
Also 1970 here. We are getting old, but we had the best music. It was real and not autotuned into oblivion.
I know how u feel
I prefer the 80s in terms of music but the 70s was an amazing era too@@mgratk
I still remember watching this on TV during the telethon. IT was absolutely amazing seeing all these artists that basically everyone listened to come together and collaborate on this.
One of the greatest musical moments of all time. The talent gathered there was off the charts. Major legends.
6:31 yes fellas. That voice here is the absolutely LEGENDARY vocals of Steve Perry!! I’m convinced he is not human with that voice.🫡
You gotta respect all these legendary artist. All made sure they put a stamp in music even the ones that didn't have solos.
This song does something to me everytime. I remember when this song came out when I was a child. We need more of this love and harmony today in 2022 and beyond
I was 28 with two very small children when this came out and I loved each and every one of these singers! This song was absolutely epic! Such talent! I feel so blessed to have grown up with these singers!
I'm 28 now and let me tell u I know every last person in this video.
that is awesome! @@sylviaslydavis405
I thoroughly enjoy watching y'all enjoy the old stuff. It was great music back in the day.
Y'all take care and rock on.
76 YO subscriber ❤
Every single person there is a legend and their voices are heard on just about every album produced in the 80s..