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 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.
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
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.
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
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.
THis is a moment in time that will never be repeated. People today have no idea how HUGE this was. All these incredible artists, from all the different genres, all coming together to do something that had never been done bfore. The entire WORLD took notice of this. And this happened long before cell phones and the internet made music so accessible to everyone. THis is just one of many reason why we say the 80's were the greatest decade for music. You can't find talent like this anymore. Not even the major stars of today like Beyonce or whoever, do it like this. No autotune, no huge production, no teams of dancers, just unbelieveable talent.
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. ✌🏻
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.
@@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.
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.
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...
I get goosebumps each time I listen to this. This was huge when it came out. Raised enormous amounts for famine relief in Africa. All that talent in one room.
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.
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
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.
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 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!
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.”
🌎🌍 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.
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 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 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
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.
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'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 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
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.
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
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
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!
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 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.
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 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❤
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
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.
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.
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
You heard legendary artists from the 70’s & 80’s &, various genres including the chorus on stage💞. For this reason it’s the best song to date in my lifetime❣️ It’s amazing to see music/artists change one decade to another. It was awesome growing up with these musicians in their prime.
MJ at the youngest legend at age 26 and Lionel Richie at 36 teamed up with other legends (total of 46 artistes/singers from different races and musical genres) to raise millions for charity (USA for Africa). As a Jamaican we knew our legends and took pride in doing so as well as incorporating musical genres (rock, jazz, pop, souls and blues etc).
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.
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.
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! ❤
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.
The camaraderie and unity of the past generation were truly remarkable. In contrast to today's divisive media landscape, individuals genuinely cared for one another and fostered a sense of community.
They were all HUGE stars and just about all of them are absolute legendary talents. They were all told they had to leave their egos at the door. They recorded this pretty much in secret, after an awards show. Quincy Jones wanted to avoid a circus. Just an amazing gathering of talent.
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!
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!
@@ellicechamberlain711 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.
Get the list of performers and listen to them all. You will see why they were asked to perform on this album! Best song ever done by so many incredible artists. Glad you picked it ❤ from 🇨🇦
Thank you guys for appreciating our time and each of our artists in the 80 and 90. I am a 90 guy so I love to see this generation appreciate our music and rhythm
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.
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.
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 wanted to do this!! Love it 😀!
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!
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 😅
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*
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
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.
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
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.
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
That Stevie and Bruce duo is iconic, still gives me goose bumps
THis is a moment in time that will never be repeated. People today have no idea how HUGE this was. All these incredible artists, from all the different genres, all coming together to do something that had never been done bfore. The entire WORLD took notice of this. And this happened long before cell phones and the internet made music so accessible to everyone. THis is just one of many reason why we say the 80's were the greatest decade for music. You can't find talent like this anymore. Not even the major stars of today like Beyonce or whoever, do it like this. No autotune, no huge production, no teams of dancers, just unbelieveable talent.
Not even these kinds of artists exist anymore.
I miss the 80s... what a wonderful time to live in.
😢
My birth year 1984 ❤
True that.
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
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
Almost 40 years later and I still get excited every time I see this video. I can name every artist. Amazing voices and talents.
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.
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. 😢
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.
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...
I get goosebumps each time I listen to this. This was huge when it came out. Raised enormous amounts for famine relief in Africa. All that talent in one room.
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
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
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!
What Stevie does is simply magical
Stevies part is my highlight in this classical masterpiece
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 😘
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
Stevie blasted offfff!!!! Mike was incredible, its Mike!
Exceptional Artist!❤
Nobody in the 2020's can sing like these singers from the 80's and 90's
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
@@getbbudded23 no shout. AIDS is usually in caps.
Didn't know the Cartier Family were that talented wow
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 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
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
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
Music legends ALL, across all music genres together for one purpose ❤️
🌎🌍 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.
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. ❤👏🏽
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 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
All that talent in one room. Will never be seen again
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! 👏
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.
It’s a joy to see you guys discover this… one of the most phenomenal songs done EVER!!!!
This was the best reaction you guys I am 55 I was real young when this happened.The lady in front is Tina Turner
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.
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
It's absolutely astounding how many legendary musicians participated in this.🙏🏾❤️👑🎶🌎👏🏾
I miss the 80s!! Consider myself blessed to have grown up in that time.
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.
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
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
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
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 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.
The 80s: "And this, is to go, even, further beyond!" 100% of my power!
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!
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.
Im so glad i was born in 67 and experienced the best music ever created!!! Enjoy guys!!!!!!!
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❤
MJ was a different level wasn't he. With all those superstars around him, I was so excited to see Michael like you guys!
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
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.
Michael wrote it and got all these folks together. It was for relief for Africa
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.
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.
Loved this song when I was a kid. And as an 80s kid we did sing this at an elementary school assembly.
You heard legendary artists from the 70’s & 80’s &, various genres including the chorus on stage💞. For this reason it’s the best song to date in my lifetime❣️ It’s amazing to see music/artists change one decade to another. It was awesome growing up with these musicians in their prime.
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.
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😭
MJ at the youngest legend at age 26 and Lionel Richie at 36 teamed up with other legends (total of 46 artistes/singers from different races and musical genres) to raise millions for charity (USA for Africa). As a Jamaican we knew our legends and took pride in doing so as well as incorporating musical genres (rock, jazz, pop, souls and blues etc).
Somebody failed these articulate young men that they don’t know about the legends that lived in their times
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.
What a collaboration of people and unique voices. This song was so LEGENDARY in the 80s and still today in 2023!!!!!
To the young man on the right, all of the singers donated their time & talent for a worthy cause. Judging the singers is unseemly.
I absolutely love watching ya'll, i am 51, it is beautiful watching you learn about my time.
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.
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!!!!
Some of the best musicians that ever were!!!
They were legends in the music era during 1960-2010
Artists back then didn’t use auto tune. They were the real thing live or in the studio. Talent
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 💗
Stevie and Bruce oh my word what a song
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.
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.
I was ten in 84 this was about feeding Africa
There will never be a room filled with the most talent as in this room! Everyone came together to help those in Ethiopia.
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! ❤
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
if only people would unite like this still , instead of the division of this day and age , so legendary , with actual talented artists !
The camaraderie and unity of the past generation were truly remarkable. In contrast to today's divisive media landscape, individuals genuinely cared for one another and fostered a sense of community.
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 cry everytime I hear this. All these beautiful voices come together.
They were all HUGE stars and just about all of them are absolute legendary talents. They were all told they had to leave their egos at the door. They recorded this pretty much in secret, after an awards show. Quincy Jones wanted to avoid a circus. Just an amazing gathering of talent.
I still get the good chills whenever I view and hear this. Some things cannot be duplicated. Thank you for reacting to this amazing moment in time.
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!
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!
@@ellicechamberlain711 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.
Get the list of performers and listen to them all. You will see why they were asked to perform on this album! Best song ever done by so many incredible artists. Glad you picked it ❤ from 🇨🇦
Thank you guys for appreciating our time and each of our artists in the 80 and 90. I am a 90 guy so I love to see this generation appreciate our music and rhythm
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.
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
Recorded the night of the Grammys, all worked for free, no egos, and no auto tune.