Stars gathered on Monday to sing a new version of "We Are The World," the 1985 hit which raised $30 million for "USA For Africa." The new version, which will aid victims of the massive Haiti earthquake, stars all new singers.
None of those who participated in 1985 were invited to attend. Lionel Richie wrote the original version along with the late Michael Jackson. He oversaw the new version with music mogul Quincy Jones.
The song, now titled "We Are The World - 25 For Haiti" will make its world premiere during NBC's coverage of the Vancouver Winter Olympics on February 12th. It will be sold via traditional and online (Amazon MP3, iTunes) retailers.
According to reports, none of the original performers returned to re-record on Monday because none were asked. Randy Phillips, chief executive of AEG Live and also Richie's manager said, "This is about a new generation mixed with an old generation."
The heavy contingent of rappers showed that focus on the "new." Among them were Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne, Drake, and LL Cool J, among others.
Among those also in attendance were Pink, Natalie Cole, Kanye West, Jennifer Hudson, Celine Dion, Brian Wilson. Both Taylor Swift and Beyonce were unable to attend. Janet Jackson will reportedly cut her section remotely.
Phillips did add that he really missed one person who did not attend: Lady Gaga.
While not an homage to "Avatar," the video was filmed by Oscar-winning screenwriter and director Paul Haggis using 3-D cameras. Some who stood as placeholders in green will eventually be able to be replaced by viewers inserting themselves into the video.
Written by Michael Santo
HULIQ.com
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