In late 1984, the world watched as calypso legend and humanitarian Harry Belafonte ignited an extraordinary effort to combat the devastating famine in Africa. His vision, brought to life with the help of manager Kenneth Kragen, culminated in one of music history’s most iconic collaborations: “We Are the World.” This star-studded 1985 single, featuring an unprecedented gathering of America’s best-known music stars, wasn’t just a song; it was a phenomenon, a heartfelt plea that transcended musical genres and united a nation for a crucial cause. It ultimately sold over 20 million copies, raising an astonishing $75 million for the nonprofit USA for Africa Foundation, while snagging four Grammy Awards, including Record and Song of the Year.
More than just a charity single, “We Are the World” became a quintessential pop culture moment, a testament to the power of music to inspire change. The recording session itself, on January 28, 1985, after the American Music Awards, was legendary, bringing together more than 40 artists like Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, and Ray Charles. It set the stage for groundbreaking events like the Live Aid concert, proving that collective artistic power could indeed address significant global risks, from misinformation to pollution and climate stress.
Decades have passed since that memorable night, and while the song’s impact remains as potent as ever, some of the incredible voices who lent their talent to this unifying anthem are no longer with us. These artists, each a giant in their own right, left an indelible mark on music and the world. Join us as we take a moment to honor and remember the unparalleled talents from “We Are the World” who have since passed away, celebrating their lives, careers, and the enduring legacy they etched into our hearts and history.
1. **Kenny Rogers**
Landing Kenny Rogers for “We Are the World” was, by all accounts, a massive coup. During the late 1970s and early ’80s, Rogers had experienced an incredible degree of success, effortlessly bridging the gap between country and pop charts. His voice was synonymous with a string of unforgettable hits, including “The Gambler,” “She Believes In Me,” and the chart-topping Dolly Parton duet “Islands in the Stream.” He was a true crossover sensation, redefining what a country artist could achieve in the mainstream.
Rogers’ impact extended beyond his powerful vocals. As The New York Times highlighted in his obituary, he was a trailblazer, becoming the first country artist to perform in the grand arenas typically reserved for major rock and pop acts. His career was marked by monumental record sales, exceeding 100 million. This commercial success, combined with his charismatic stage presence, cemented his status as a music icon who commanded immense respect and admiration from fans across various genres.
While his contribution to the chorus, famously sharing a microphone with Paul Simon, is widely known, Rogers made another, perhaps less celebrated but equally crucial, contribution to “We Are the World.” As KCRW recounted, it was Rogers who generously offered his Lion Share Recording Studios in Beverly Hills. This private space became the secret headquarters where Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Quincy Jones, alongside a team of session musicians, meticulously crafted the backing track late into the night, laying the foundation for the star-studded vocals to be added the following day.
Kenny Rogers continued to be a beloved live performer well into the second decade of the 21st century, with his concerts, especially his famous Christmas shows, drawing large crowds. He maintained a strong presence in the country music scene, always knowing how to deliver a good song. His passing in 2020 at the age of 81 marked the end of an era, but his music and his profound contributions to both the “We Are the World” project and the broader music landscape continue to resonate, proving his enduring legacy as a true legend.
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2. **James Ingram**
Given his deep and long-standing association with producer Quincy Jones, one of the primary architects behind “We Are the World,” it came as no surprise that the smooth, honey-voiced R&B singer James Ingram was tapped to contribute a verse. Ingram’s talent was undeniable, making him a hot property after his introduction on Jones’ seminal album, ‘The Dude.’ He subsequently built an impressive catalog of hits, including his collaboration with Michael Jackson on “PYT (Pretty Young Thing)” from the iconic ‘Thriller’ album, the 1983 duet “Yah Mo B There” with Michael McDonald, and his chart-topping duet with Linda Ronstadt, “Somewhere Out There,” from “An American Tail.”
Ingram’s distinctive smooth baritone arrived relatively early in “We Are the World,” nestled between the powerful verses sung by Kenny Rogers and Tina Turner. His delivery of that single verse was so memorable and iconic that, as mentioned in the context, a YouTube video exists solely to compile amateur singers attempting their own impressions of his line. This speaks volumes about the lasting impact of his contribution and his unique vocal imprint on such a globally recognized song.
Beyond his vocal prowess, Ingram also made quite an impression visually during the recording session. Rolling Stone’s minute-by-minute breakdown of the “We Are the World” video humorously quipped that “James Ingram has shown up for the session in a shiny silver tracksuit, as if he came directly from a workout on the space shuttle.” This vibrant and memorable fashion choice added another layer to his unforgettable presence in the historic video, solidifying his image in the minds of millions who watched.
Sadly, James Ingram passed away at the age of 66 in January 2019, with reports at the time indicating he had been battling brain cancer. Following his death, Quincy Jones shared a heartfelt statement with Billboard, celebrating Ingram’s extraordinary talent: “With that soulful, whisky-sounding voice, James Ingram was simply magical… Every beautiful note that James sang pierced your essence and comfortably made itself at home.” His passing left a void in the R&B world, but his beautiful music and iconic “We Are the World” moment ensure his spirit lives on.
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3. **Tina Turner**
When Tina Turner walked into A&M Studios to record her part for “We Are the World,” she was in a truly unique and powerful position. Less than a year earlier, she had orchestrated one of the most remarkable comebacks in music history with her 1984 album “Private Dancer.” After nearly a decade away from the spotlight, following her notoriously troubled marriage and musical partnership with Ike Turner, she had been largely considered a washed-up has-been. But “Private Dancer” not only resurrected her career; it propelled her to a degree of fame and success she had never experienced before, spawning multiple global hits including her signature song “What’s Love Got To Do With It.”
Her participation in “We Are the World” was the triumphant cherry on top of this celebrated era. The Independent’s account of the recording session perfectly captures her joyous spirit; upon completing her verse and some brief harmonizing with Billy Joel, she famously yelled, “Fish burger!” This moment, full of zest and raw emotion, perfectly encapsulated the infectious energy and renewed vitality she brought to the project, demonstrating her sheer delight at being part of such a historic gathering.
Turner’s career achievements continued to soar shortly after the “We Are the World” session. Less than a month later, she won three Grammy Awards, with “What’s Love Got To Do With It” taking home Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, and “Better Be Good to Me” earning Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. This period marked a decade-long run as an international sensation, dominating both recording studios and stages worldwide, proving her unshakeable star power.
Her tumultuous life story, a testament to true perseverance, also became the subject of books and movies, inspiring millions globally. Turner continued to perform impressively, looking and sounding fantastic well past age 80. After her final 50th-anniversary tour in 2009, she retired, living out her final years peacefully with her husband Erwin Bach in Switzerland. Tina Turner passed away in May 2023 at the age of 83 after a lengthy illness, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy as an inspiration, an icon, and simply, the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
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4. **Michael Jackson**
In 1985, Michael Jackson stood as the biggest star in the world, and his contribution to “We Are the World” was nothing short of monumental. He co-wrote the song with Lionel Richie, pouring his creative genius into its message, and played a pivotal role in the studio, crafting the bedrock track to which all the other incredible voices would later be added. This included his meticulous multitracking of his own background vocals, ensuring every layer was perfect for the final product.
While his musical input was essential, the experience of co-writing the song with Jackson provided Lionel Richie with some truly unforgettable, and hilariously chaotic, memories. Richie recounted an incident at Jackson’s house where, amidst the barking of his dog and his Mynah bird yelling “Shut up” at the dog, he witnessed stacks of vinyl albums tumbling over. The culprit? A massive white python that emerged from behind the records, slithering towards him. Richie famously confessed, “I will admit I was screaming like a white woman,” a testament to the unexpected nature of working with the King of Pop.
In a previous interview with Billboard, Richie recalled his response when Jackson, seemingly unfazed, told him the snake just wanted to play. Richie’s emphatic reply, “I said, ‘You’re out of your freaking mind,'” perfectly encapsulates the surreal humor of the situation. It took Richie a good two hours “to calm my a** back down,” illustrating the unique, sometimes startling, environment that surrounded Michael Jackson.
Jackson’s subsequent release, “Bad,” ensured he remained at the pinnacle of global stardom through the late 80s. His three album collaborations with producer Quincy Jones are universally recognized as some of the most critically and commercially successful of all time, standing as pop/soul classics. While Jackson continued to record with success into the 2000s, his later years were unfortunately overshadowed by intense media scrutiny, unusual behavior, and relentless accusations. Tragically, on the eve of a planned comeback tour, Michael Jackson died suddenly in June 2009 at the age of 50, his death ultimately ruled a homicide. His legacy, though complex, lives on through his largely undefiled music, which continues to inspire and move millions.
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5. **Al Jarreau**
Al Jarreau, blessed with a voice so smooth it could make silk envious, was a revered figure known for his jazz-inflected R&B hits. His unique vocal stylings graced songs like “We’re In This Love Together,” “Mornin’,” and the unforgettable theme from the hit TV series “Moonlighting.” His career spanned an impressive six decades, during which he consistently captivated audiences with his improvisational genius and heartfelt performances, earning him multiple Grammy Awards across different genres.
Despite his immense talent, the “We Are the World” recording session proved to be a challenging experience for Jarreau, offering a glimpse into the pressures of collaborating with so many musical titans. Video outtakes from the session reveal that he didn’t quite nail his part in a single take. Sharing a microphone with the unexpected pairing of Dionne Warwick and Willie Nelson, with Bruce Springsteen waiting to deliver the chorus’s first line, Jarreau repeatedly stumbled, stepping on Nelson’s vocals and missing his cues, a rare moment of vulnerability for the seasoned performer.
His session embarrassments didn’t end there. As the Independent recounted, Jarreau became utterly starstruck by the arrival of Bob Dylan. Jarreau, a profound admirer of the “Blowin’ in the Wind” singer, accosted Dylan to express his deep appreciation for his work. Life magazine’s David Breskin, present in the studio, observed that Dylan, having just finished a verse he wasn’t entirely pleased with, responded by avoiding eye contact and simply walking away. This seemingly dismissive act left Jarreau visibly distraught.
Following Dylan’s exit, Jarreau reportedly burst into tears, exclaiming, “My idol!” between sobs. This poignant moment underscored the raw emotional impact of the session and the profound respect even established stars held for one another. Al Jarreau passed away in 2017 at the age of 76, bringing an end to a remarkable career, but his incredible voice and these memorable anecdotes from that historic night ensure his place in music history remains firmly cemented.
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6. **Ray Charles**
When the history of American music is written, Ray Charles is always a headline act. The man affectionately known as “the Genius” wasn’t just a participant in “We Are the World”; he was a venerated elder-statesman, a foundational force whose piano-driven classics like “What’d I Say” and “Hit the Road, Jack” had already forged the path for rock and soul. His very presence at A&M Studios commanded immense respect from every superstar in the room.
Imagine the scene: even music titans like Billy Joel were utterly awestruck. Life magazine’s David Breskin captured the moment, quoting Joel as he observed Charles’s entry: “That’s like the Statue of Liberty walking in.” Joel was reportedly physically shaking when introduced by producer Quincy Jones, a powerful testament to the sheer, gravitational force of Charles’s artistry among his peers.
True to his iconic stature, Charles nailed his part in “We Are the World” in a single, soulful take. Footage shows him delivering his lines with profound emotion, reading Braille lyrics with his fingertips, all while dancing and stomping his foot to the rhythm. He then added a signature keyboard flourish. Lionel Richie perfectly articulated the impact, telling Esquire, “When Ray came in and opened his mouth, we just kinda all fell over in the corner and said, ‘Wow, did you hear that? That’s Ray Charles.’ It was just brilliant.”
Beyond the music, a heartwarming, almost surreal, moment unfolded. Ray Charles politely asked for restroom directions, and who better to guide a legend than Stevie Wonder? “I’ll show you where it is, Ray. Follow me!” Wonder reportedly told Charles, taking his hand as one blind musical icon led another. This beautiful interaction underscored the unique camaraderie of that extraordinary night. Charles passed in 2004 at 73, but his spirit and groundbreaking music continue to inspire.
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7. **Waylon Jennings**
When you hear “outlaw country,” Waylon Jennings’ name immediately springs to mind. His rebellious spirit and authentic voice defined a genre, giving us anthems like “Luckenbach, Texas,” “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys,” and the unforgettable theme from “The Dukes of Hazzard.” Jennings crafted music that was raw, real, and uncompromisingly his own, a true legend of the American soundscape.
Sadly, Jennings’ hard-charging lifestyle eventually took its toll. He passed away in 2002 at the age of 64, succumbing to complications from diabetes in his sleep. His death left a significant void, but his legacy as an artist who fiercely charted his own course continues to resonate deeply with fans and musicians alike, proving that the outlaw spirit truly never fades.
Now, if you’re straining to recall Waylon Jennings’ distinct vocal on “We Are the World,” there’s a good reason: he didn’t appear on the final track, in the video, or the iconic group photo. He was at the session and credited, but his absence from the final cut stems from an unexpected lyrical dispute. According to The Independent, the issue was Michael Jackson’s original “sha-lum sha-lingay” lyrics for the chorus end. Bob Geldof feared they could be misconstrued as mocking an African language, a valid concern for the song’s humanitarian goal.
In an effort to find a culturally sensitive alternative, Stevie Wonder ingeniously called a Nigerian friend, who suggested the Swahili phrase “willi moing-gu.” However, by this point, Waylon Jennings had reached his limit. With characteristic directness, he famously declared, “No good old boy sings in Swahili,” before making his legendary exit from the studio. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated Waylon, showcasing his fiercely independent spirit even among global superstars.
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8. **June Pointer**
In the mid-1980s, The Pointer Sisters, with June as a key member, were riding high on infectious hits like “I’m So Excited,” “Jump,” and “Neutron Dance.” This dynamic trio, also featuring Anita and Ruth, brought undeniable pop energy to the “We Are the World” session. Despite their impressive catalog, none of the sisters had a vocal solo, instead lending their powerful harmonies to the rousing chorus, embodying the song’s message of global solidarity.
Sadly, following that historic collaboration, June Pointer, the youngest of the four sisters, began a private and painful battle with substance abuse. After a period in rehab, she expressed renewed hope to People magazine in 1998, stating, “It’s been a long road for all of us,” and cherishing the thought of singing with her sisters again, calling it “my favorite high.” It was a poignant glimpse into her deep love for music and family.
However, the path to recovery proved challenging, and June tragically relapsed, leading to her departure from the group in 2004. Later that year, at age 50, she faced arrest for cocaine possession, starkly illustrating addiction’s grip. Sentenced to 18 months in rehab, she received a devastating diagnosis: cancer, which had metastasized to her liver, pancreas, and lungs.
June Pointer passed away in 2006 at just 52 years old. Her story is a heartbreaking reminder that even beloved stars face immense personal struggles behind the glamorous facade. Her sisters and fans mourned the loss of a vibrant voice. If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, vital resources are available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website or contact their National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for support.
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9. **Anita Pointer**
Anita Pointer was a crucial voice in The Pointer Sisters, joining her siblings June and Ruth in the powerful chorus of “We Are the World.” Her soulful contributions helped forge the song’s unifying sound. While the group’s early 1980s chart dominance eventually waned, The Pointer Sisters, with Anita’s consistent presence and later Ruth’s daughter Issa filling in for June, continued to perform, a testament to their enduring talent and stage charisma, adapting while preserving their unique sound.
Tragically, Anita Pointer, the second eldest of the four sisters, passed away in December 2022 at 74 due to cancer, mirroring her sister June’s fate. This loss followed her sister Bonnie’s passing in 2020 from cardiac arrest. These consecutive losses underscored the fragility of life and the profound impact these talented women had on each other and their legions of fans.
Following Anita’s passing, her family’s heartfelt statement, shared by CBC News, resonated deeply: “While we are deeply saddened by the loss of Anita, we are comforted in knowing she is now with her daughter Jada and her sisters June and Bonnie and at peace.” It beautifully captured hope for her peace and reunion, and emphasized her pivotal role: “She was the one that kept all of us close and together for so long. Her love of our family will live on in each of us.”
For anyone grappling with addiction issues, remember that help is available. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides vital resources. Visit their website or contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential support and guidance.
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10. **Harry Belafonte**
The very genesis of “We Are the World” sprang from the compassionate heart of Harry Belafonte. More than a musical legend, Belafonte was a profound humanitarian whose urgent desire to combat famine in Africa sparked the entire extraordinary project. Known as the “King of Calypso,” he brought vibrant Caribbean music into the American pop lexicon with hits like “Matilda, Matilda” and “Jump In the Line.” His influence, blending artistry with activism, stretched far beyond music, making him a true cultural icon.
Belafonte’s vision and unwavering commitment were the driving forces. He leveraged his vast network, rallying music’s biggest names for a crucial cause. Fittingly, he joined the chorus himself, his voice blending with those he inspired. He passed away in April 2023 at 96, leaving a dual legacy of unparalleled artistry and unwavering social justice that continues to inspire globally.
Beyond his pivotal role, Belafonte was central to one of the most heartwarming anecdotes from the session. As the star-studded chorus finished its recording, a magical moment unfolded: most participants spontaneously launched into an impromptu a cappella rendition of Belafonte’s classic, “Banana Boat.” The studio filled with the joyous chant of “Day-o, Day-o, Daylight come and me wanna go home.”
The video of this special moment offers a candid glimpse into the camaraderie. Bruce Springsteen grinned widely, slightly bemused but clearly enjoying the unexpected singalong. Al Jarreau, taking charismatic control, animatedly led the singers through the verses and choruses. As the performance concluded, a visibly moved and grinning Harry Belafonte sang along with pride, receiving heartfelt applause from the assembled superstars. It was a perfect, full-circle moment, celebrating the man whose compassion ignited a global movement, uniting them all through music and humanity.
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The voices we’ve remembered here, from Ray Charles’s profound soul to Harry Belafonte’s visionary leadership, represent an extraordinary convergence for “We Are the World.” Each artist, in their unique way, contributed to a moment that transcended music, reminding us of the immense power of unity and compassion. Their songs, stories, and shared message of hope live on, forever etched in music history and our collective hearts. They proved that together, we truly can make a difference.
