Stars Come Together for 2010 Remake of 'We Are the World'

A star-studded ensemble gathered at Jim Hensen studios in Los Angeles yesterday to record the remake of We are the World. The song was originally co-written and co-produced by the late Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Quincy Jones in 1985 for "USA for Africa" relief. A whopping $63 million was raised - all thanks to a large group of singers who gathered one night 25-years ago.

Artists like Bruce Springsteen, Cyndi Lauper, Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, and Ray Charles - mega stars of the time - all made the original "We are the World" a success. It became an international song of hope, reminding us that there were countries that needed our help.

Lionel Richie and Quincy Jones are producing the remake. Paul Haggis, filmmaker and director of Million Dollar Baby and Crash, filmed the session.

Recording artists joining in on the remake include native Haitian Wyclef Jean, Pink, the Jonas Brothers, Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand, Lady Gaga, Jay Z, Harry Connick Jr., Lil Wayne, actors Jeff Bridges and Vince Vaughn.

Of the event, Lil Wayne said, "...this is something way more important that I could have ever imagined." When told he would be singing Bob Dylan's part, he said he didn't know how to sing. I think you'll do just fine.

The We are the World remake video will air during the opening ceremony for the Olympics February 12.

According to their press release, organizers say both versions of We Are the World and accompanying video will be available for purchase online and in retail stores. All proceeds will go directly to earthquake-ravaged Haiti.

Singer Jason Mraz said of the song, "It's a terrific return for a terrific song, and the Haiti disaster is a wake-up call to all of us reminding us we're all on the same planet."

Unfortunately, when disaster strikes, we've showed time and again how easy it is to "do our part" then forget about it. Countries such as Haiti will need our ongoing support for more than just a few weeks or months. It's important to keep the funding going, continue making donations or do something else that supports relief efforts.

Michael Jackson must be smiling down right about now and pleased to know that something he strongly believed in has been resurrected and given a fresh face to help others in their time of need.