On January 28, 1985, more than 45 of the era’s most popular singers and songwriters gathered to record a song to raise funds for the charity USA for Africa. The song, “We Are the World,” released on March 7 that year, was an immediate media sensation. It sold an astonishing 800,000 copies in three days and ultimately raised more than $60 million for African famine relief and inspired other musician-driven charitable efforts. The idea for “We Are the World” originated with American singer, actor, and activist Harry Belafonte, who was inspired by “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” That single, which ...(100 of 533 words) Access the full article Help support true facts by becoming a member. Subscribe today!