Kanye West Re-Emerges for ‘We Are the World’ Remake

Image via Wikipedia

The soon-to-be released remake of “We Are the World,” a mega-collaboration of artists to benefit Haiti, will feature one hip-hop star who has been out of the limelight as of late; and another who is on his way out.

Kanye West, who I noted was conspicuously left out of the lineup to perform at the Grammys despite having a prominent role in the song “Forever,” took part in the charity single. Lil Wayne did also – perhaps the last time the rapper will be in a recording studio before he begins a stint in prison.

The hip-hop community was well-represented on the performer list for “We Are the World,” which was once again organized by Lionel Richie, Quincy Jones, and other industry veterans who helped spearhead the effort the first time around. Hip-hop veteran LL Cook J helped craft a good chunk of the rap lyrics, at the request of Quincy Jones. Among the hip-hop stars contributing were: will.i.am, Wyclef Jean, LL Cool J, Akon, Snoop Dogg, Busta Rhymes, Kid Cudi and Bizzy Bone. They joined performers from various other genres, including Barbra Streisand, Josh Groban, Celine Dion and Pink.

I know what you’re thinking – it’s about time Snoop Dogg and Barbra Streisand finally got around to working together.

Jones told the media in a statement:

“Twenty five years ago, the entertainment industry showed the power of community to help our fellow man when we recorded ‘We Are The World’ to bring relief to those suffering from famine in Ethiopia. And while the need to assistant Africa continues, today the country of Haiti is suffering immeasurably from the destruction due to the recent earthquake and is in immediate need of relief that will last long after the television cameras have left. As artists, we have joined together on this 25th anniversary and in the spirit of ‘We Are The World’ to help meet that need.”

The remake will premiere this Friday, during the opening ceremony for the Vancouver Winter Olympic Games