We Are the World by USA for Africa is a 1985 charity landmark that brought some of the biggest voices of the era into one studio for a single shared purpose.
This guide gives the song credits, the story behind the recording, and the official video, without reproducing the song text itself.
We Are the World Song Credits
Song: We Are the World
Singer: USA for Africa
Lyrics: Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie
Music: Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie
Producer: Quincy Jones
Album: We Are the World
Release Date: 7 March 1985
Music Label: Columbia
About the Song
USA for Africa, short for United Support of Artists for Africa, released We Are the World as a charity single to support famine relief in Ethiopia during the 1983-1985 famine. The project turned a recording session into a large-scale act of generosity, with proceeds directed toward helping people facing severe hunger.
The all-star session took place on the night of 28 January 1985 at A&M Recording Studios in Los Angeles. Life magazine was the only media outlet inside the studio, which helped keep the focus on the recording and the cause rather than on publicity.
The single went on to receive three Grammy Awards, one American Music Award, and one People's Choice Award. Its promotion included a music video and the home video We Are the World: The Video Event, which became the ninth best-selling home video of 1985. Books, posters, and shirts were also sold, with all merchandise proceeds going to famine relief.
Its legacy has lasted far beyond its original release, because it showed how many well-known artists could set aside individual careers for one evening and work together for a humanitarian goal. In 2025, for the 40th anniversary, an enhanced video version and remastered audio were released.
For more music from artists connected with this era, see Billie Jean lyrics by Michael Jackson, Born to Run lyrics by Bruce Springsteen, and Total Eclipse of the Heart lyrics by Bonnie Tyler.
Watch the Official Video
Watch the original official video below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote We Are the World?
Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie wrote the song, and Quincy Jones produced it.
When was it released?
It was released on 7 March 1985 as a single from the album We Are the World.
What cause did it support?
It was a charity single supporting famine relief in Ethiopia during the 1983-1985 famine.
Which awards did it win?
It won three Grammy Awards, one American Music Award, and one People's Choice Award.
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