We Are The World
- Label:
- CBS
- Year:
- 1985
- Country:
- Zimbabwe
- Catalog:
- US 1
About this release
The recording of "We Are The World" emerged from an urgent desire to address the famine in Ethiopia during the mid-1980s, uniting prominent artists under the umbrella of social responsibility. This star-studded project featured luminaries like Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie co-writing the anthem, while the production was helmed by Quincy Jones and Michael Omartian. The collaboration brought together over 40 musicians, each contributing a unique vocal style that blended seamlessly into a powerful pop sound designed to resonate with a global audience.
"We Are The World" left an indelible mark on the music landscape, influencing humanitarian efforts and collaborations that followed. Artists like USA For Africa laid the groundwork for future benefit singles, inspiring projects such as "Do They Know It's Christmas?" by Band Aid and "One" by U2 and Green Day. The song's ability to blend pop sensibilities with a social message has resonated through the years, and its impact can be traced in contemporary efforts by artists such as Coldplay and Beyoncé, who continue to use their platforms for advocacy and awareness.
Owning this record on vinyl offers a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in music history. The rich analog sound captures the lush production nuances and vocal harmonies that digital formats often compress. Furthermore, being pressed in Zimbabwe adds a layer of international significance, giving collectors a unique pressing that differs from the more common US versions. The artwork itself, featuring the iconic image of the artists together, becomes a collectible item in its own right, reinforcing the record's cultural and artistic importance.
Tracklist
- A We Are The World 7:19
- B Grace 4:30
