We Are the World Recorded: Music Fights Ethiopian Famine
Fifty-four of the biggest names in American music crammed into a studio after midnight, fueled by pizza and a mission. Michael Jackson arrived first. Prince didn't show. But everyone from Lionel Richie to Bob Dylan gathered to record a song that would become the most star-packed charity single in history. Twelve minutes to record. Over $63 million raised. And a global audience watching a generation of musicians decide that fame could mean something more than just fame.
January 28, 1985
41 years ago
Key Figures & Places
What Else Happened on January 28
He wasn't even in Rome when power landed in his lap. Trajan, a Spanish-born military commander, was literally at the edges of the empire when word came that he'…
The most powerful man in Europe died wearing a white linen shirt and surrounded by chanting monks. Charlemagne - who'd unified most of Western Europe, created a…
He rode into Durham like he owned the place — which, technically, he did. Robert de Comines, freshly minted Earl of Northumbria by William the Conqueror, couldn…
Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV knelt in the snow outside Canossa Castle for three days, begging Pope Gregory VII to rescind his excommunication. By granting absolu…
He walked barefoot through snow, wearing a hair shirt, begging forgiveness. The most powerful monarch in Europe reduced to a supplicant, waiting three days outs…
Six dancers burned alive. The king barely escaped. What started as a lavish masquerade at the Hôtel Saint-Pol turned into a horrific spectacle when one performe…
Talk to History
Have a conversation with historical figures who witnessed this era. Ask questions, explore perspectives, and bring history to life.