why was we are the world written

The song "We Are the World" was written in 1985 by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia during the 1983-1985 famine that resulted in about one million deaths. The project was initiated by American singer and activist Harry Belafonte, who wanted to create a powerful American benefit single similar to the UK’s Band Aid charity single "Do They Know It's Christmas?" The song was meant to unite people worldwide through music to address the global crisis of famine, fostering a sense of community, empathy, and responsibility. It became a symbol of hope and collaboration, raising millions of dollars to help those in need and inspiring future musical philanthropy efforts.