Jackie Chan and Lionel Richie sing 'We Are The World' at the Chinese New Year festival
Jackie Chan and Lionel Richie performed 'We Are The World' at a televised gala celebrating the Lunar New Year in China.
During the Lunar New Year gala broadcast by China's state television CCTV on February 16, 2023, film star Jackie Chan and American singer Lionel Richie performed the iconic song 'We Are The World.' The event showcased a blend of international talent as Richie, one of the original singers of the song, took the English verses while Chan sang in Mandarin, creating a culturally rich experience for viewers. They were also joined by a children's choir dressed in red, symbolizing good fortune in Chinese culture, enhanced with white and turquoise accents.
The performance was part of the Spring Festival gala, an important event marking the eve of the Lunar New Year, which this year celebrates the Year of the Fire Horse in the Chinese zodiac. 'We Are The World' was originally recorded in 1985 by a group of artists under the name USA for Africa, and its revival in this context reflects both an appreciation for the past and the ongoing relevance of its message of unity and collaboration. The combination of Chan's and Richie's diverse backgrounds brought a sentimental twist to a song with a long-standing legacy.
Lionel Richie recently produced a documentary detailing the making of 'We Are The World,' offering insights into the song's profound impact on global music and humanitarian efforts. Celebrating the Lunar New Year through such collaborative performances emphasizes the universal theme of compassion and togetherness, making it a fitting tribute during this festive season.