Billboard requires a JavaScript enabled browser to get the full experience

'We Are The World' Turns 20 On DVD

Comments

The 20th anniversary of the release of USA For Africa's charity single "We Are the World" will be celebrated Feb. 1 with the DVD "We Are the World: The Story Behind the Song." To be issued by Image Entertainment, the double-disc set culls together more than four hours of footage from the historic session, which featured some of the biggest names in music.

In addition to an expanded edition of the original "making of" special released on home video in 1985, "The Story Behind the Song" will include the 10th anniversary documentary about the song and two extra hours of rehearsal and recording footage.

Fans will also be able to utilize a newly created karaoke function to sing over the song's chorus and instrumental breaks. Additional clips include "We Are the World" performances at the Grammys, American Music Awards and Live Aid.

Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan and Diana Ross were among the artists on hand for the original Jan. 28, 1985, session that birthed "We are the World," which went on to sell more than seven million copies worldwide and win the song and record of the year Grammys.

The single and accompanying album have raised more than $60 million for African famine relief. Proceeds from the upcoming DVD will benefit the same cause.

"I wish I could say that 'We Are The World' solved all the problems it highlighted," says Ken Kragen, one of the original recording session's co-organizers. "Nevertheless, it did shed incredible light on those problems, galvanized many into action and set an example of what people can accomplish when they come together in pursuit of helping others in need."

Up for Discussion

Jump to Forums

Sort By

Page:

Connect with

More Features

All features

Listy

Billboard chart app

Billboard archives

Thanks For Joining Billboard

Log in to create your profile, speak your mind and connect with listeners like you.

Why Join ?

Don't just hear it. Live it. Go deeper than a casual listen: Voice your feelings, build a profile around your favorite music, connect with people who share your passions and discover new ones. Sign up for free.

Complete Your Registration at Billboard.com!

Haven't Joined Yet ?

For the full Billboard experience, you need to be a member. Sign up. It's free.

Join Billboard

Forgot your password?

Enter the e-mail address you used to sign up and we will email you the password .

Email Sent !

Your password has been sent to the email address you provided. Please sign in below :

Log In

Forget your password ?

Action Successful

We'd love to hear your feedback on the new Billboard.com!

Whether it's a feature request or a bug

We want to hear from you. Please use this form to anonymously give us your input.