We are the world 25 for Haiti

I've been wanting to write something for days but just couldn't decide on a subject. (Please read this entire piece before casting judgment. I do go through a change of opinion.)

A few minutes ago I accidentally clicked on YouTube. Normally if I accidentally click on something I close it straight away. For some reason this time I did not. I figured while I'm here I may as well have a quick look/see and I might get a good giggle.

So I clicked on 'featured' and the first video that popped up was the 2010 cover of 'We are the world' for Haiti.

I'll be honest. I was skeptical to say the least, however curiosity got the better of me (as it always does.)
It is dangerous to cover something that was a worldwide phenomenon. To me that song will always be Michael Jackson. Before I had seen this clip I personally found the idea almost disrespectful. I know they were setting out with good intentions when they proposed the cover but really. MJ hasn't even been dead a year.
I guess I just felt it was too soon.

The first few scenes seemed to confirm my skepticism. It just didn't jump out and grab me like the original had done.

I didn't recognise many of the first few performers and those I did recognise generally aren't my cup of tea. But then 2 minutes and 20 seconds in it changed, there was a split screen shot of Janet and Michael Jackson and I was no longer able to contain my emotion. Tears flowed down my face. I ask that you please watch the clip before reading on.




Wow. listening again is just as powerful. I am playing the song now for a third time as I write this.
Seriously I was quite unsure about the line-up for this cover. from the sneak-peeks that had been played on TV I knew Snoop, p!nk and Vince Vaughn were all involved. In my head I couldn't understand how it would harmoniously come together but somehow it works. Sure, there are elements I am still a little dubious about but then again if you think about it, this song does capture the styles of the music of today while still remaining reasonably true to its original form.

I think everyone involved in this song should be very proud of themselves. I think Michael Jackson would be proud. I hope these efforts pay off and do get people supporting the Haiti relief efforts. Even if you personally are not in a position to give, Please spread the word to others so those with the means are aware of the process.

For further information on how to donate or to purchase the song on iTunes please visit World25.org
If you would like to share your thoughts and feelings on this song please do so in the comments section below.

TrishwaH