“We are the world” History

"We Are the World" is a 1985 song recorded by

the group USA for Africa. It was written
by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie.

The song was released on March 7, 1985, as the only single from
the album. A worldwide commercial success, it topped music
charts throughout the world and became the fastest-selling
American pop single in history. The historic event brought
together some of the most famous artists in the music industry at
that time.

Four months after the release of "We Are the World", USA for
Africa had taken in almost $10.8 million. The majority of the
money came from record sales within the US. Members of the
public also donated money—almost $1.3 million within the same
time period. In May 1985, USA for Africa officials estimated that
they had sold between $45 million and $47 million worth of official
merchandise around the world.

"We Are the World" has been recognized as a politically important

song, which had an international focus on Africa that was simply
unprecedented".