| ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. | |
| OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that while "WE ARE THE WORLD" contains no graphic language or other adult content, the song mentions "people dying" and makes references to God. Still, the tune’s general emphasis on helping the less fortunate is appropriate for audiences of all ages.
Twenty-five years after it was first released to help starving African nations, the single "We Are the World" has had a resurgence -- this time, to support victims of the Haitian earthquake. The roster of artists who perform the song, which was originally written by Michael Jackson, includes more than 80 names that are all over the stylistic map: Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Pink, Nick Jonas, Barbara Streisand, Miley Cyrus, Tony Bennett, Usher, Lil Wayne, and dozens more. Premiered during the opening ceremonies of the 2009 Winter Olympics, the song's video features footage of the epic recording session. Both the video and the track itself are available for purchase, with all proceeds going directly to help Haiti's citizens.
Recruiting artists from so many different musical backgrounds gives "We Are the World" as broad an appeal as possible, if not one consistent sound. Uber-popular newcomers like Bieber, Pink, and Cyrus lend a young tone, while Streisand, Bennett, and opera powerhouse Josh Groban will appeal to older crowds. Highlights include the portions of Michael Jackson's performance on the original song that are spliced into the new rendition, as well as the new rap verses that have been added and performed collectively by West, Kid Cudi, will.i.am, and other big-name rap artists.
Families can talk about what makes a person put aside her or his own priorities in order to help others. What other things might these artists have been doing when they were asked to perform on "We Are the World"?
Even from so far away, what can people in the United States do to help the victims of the Haiti earthquake?
| Artist: | Various Artists |
| Release date: | February 12, 2010 |
| Genre: | World music |
| Parental advisory: | No |