25th Anniversary re-recording of “We Are The World” to benefit Haiti relief

By Michelle Welch  |  January 28, 2010 | 7:20pm
Aux Features Music
25th Anniversary re-recording of “We Are The World” to benefit Haiti relief

According to E! Online, Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie are spearheading a 25th anniversary re-recording of the star-speckled, Michael Jackson- and Lionel Richie-penned hit “We Are The World,” with proceeds going toward Haiti relief. In what's presumably an accidental echo of Pat Robertson, Jones is quoted in the piece saying, “It's the 25th anniversary and it's perfect timing … It's not an accident, man. That's God. It will be 'We Are The World' for Haiti."

The report says writer and director Paul Haggis will most likely film a recording session of the song on Monday. And the Showbiz blog at The Hollywood Reporter says the recording of the song was pushed to Monday to capitalize on the star talent lingering in Los Angeles the day after the Grammy Awards. Originally, the planned anniversary recording was to take place today.

The talent list so far includes Usher, Natalie Cole, and John Legend, yet Jones was hesitant to reveal more until names are set in stone. But you can bet the “Hope For Haiti Now” performers are invited. The original recording, which benefited African famine relief, was performed by the supergroup USA For Africa, which collectively featured the vocal talents of Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Diana Ross, Bruce Springsteen, Cyndi Lauper, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, Bette Midler, Dan Aykroyd, and many more. See the music video below for other faces.

 
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