"We Are the World" sequel on 25th anniversary to benefit Haiti

(AFP PHOTO DDP/MICHAEL LATZ)

On the 25th anniversary of the anthem, "We Are the World," the charity song recorded to provide African famine relief in 1985, members of the original organizing team are planning a new version to benefit Haiti.

Lionel Richie, who co-wrote the song with Michael Jackson, is heading up the effort to redo the song with co-producer Quincy Jones and another supergroup. The updated recording will feature Usher, Natalie Cole, and John Legend, plus more artists being recruited during Grammy week in Los Angeles.

Originally, Jones and Richie planned a 25th anniversary celebration in Los Angeles, but plans changed after Haiti's earthquake. Scheduling a date with no conflicts for the dozens of artists who want to participate is a challenge. Jackson's This Is It concert producers, AEG Live, are assisting in pulling the effort together.

Oscar winning writer-director Paul Haggis ( Crash) is under consideration as the music video director. Haggis's organization, Artists for Peace and Justice, raises money for Haiti and the Canadian director flew to Haiti last week to assist with aid efforts.
The song and video of the performance will be available for purchase with proceeds donated to Haiti earthquake relief.

RC