The Greatest Night in Pop

I have no qualms about praising this piece. It is great that after over thirty some years, we get to see the effort that went into producing this record. Of course, there are critical comments about how these big ticket stars could have opened their pocketbooks and sent a bunch of money to Africa. It's interesting how the first thing out of some people's mouth is to put down the effort that was made. The moneys that came from this far exceeded anything these people could have contributed. The beauty was the herding of cats in a venue that was being constructed on the fly. Lionel Richie had to be in way over his head at times. It was also interesting to see that some of the performers, famous as they were, became frightened that they couldn't deliver a one or two sentence solo. Of course, others didn't like the people that were there. Bob Dylan is frequently criticized. But we all know how he sounds and he was contributing for the overall impact of the production. I have to say that when I watched this, I didn't think all that much about Huey Lewis. He becomes a major contributor to the documentary. Anyway, what an effort to draw these people together. Leaving a major awards show and heading off to do this. It will never happen again.

I waited 97 minutes to find out why Dan Akroyd was in that recording studio. I still don't know. As much as I loved the Blues Brothers, that doesn't make him a singer.

The only two huge stars of the time missing were Prince and Madonna. We learned about Prince in all his solitary weirdness but Madonna was mentioned only for a split second.

For anyone who's been in a professional recording studio, Cyndi Lauper having to remove her jewelry was hilarious. The microphones pick up everything, even the proverbial dropped pin. To anyone questioning why she was there, take a quick look at the pop charts from say 1983 to 1986 - there's your answer.

This is everything I want from a documentary. It was both informative and entertaining, and it gave me a brief glimpse into something raw and real. It effectively captures the feeling of being in that recording studio on that specific night in the company of the biggest names in music at the time - the exhilaration but also the pressure and tension felt by everyone in the room (Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Quincy Jones, Bruce Springsteen, Cyndi Lauper, Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan, Diana Ross, the list goes on and on). I felt like I got to know each of these artists a little bit better because of their raw emotions and vulnerability that were on display in the footage.

I wasn't alive when "We are the World" was released in 1985. However, I distinctly remember when the 25th anniversary rendition was released in 2010 and being instantly enthralled by the sheer power of so many iconic voices united for one important cause. I've watched that video over and over, and I get the same visceral feeling every time. This documentary adds depth and context to that feeling, and I now have even more appreciation for the original song.

Seeing all this talent come together for a great cause is truly heartwarming. Lionel Richie, a fantastic storyteller and host, alongside Quincy Jones, skillfully managed this remarkable group of artists, ensuring a seamless flow. The homage paid to Harry Belafonte as the initiator was particularly touching. Watching the writing and recording process with Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie is great fun. MJ's voice is incredibly pristine. I'm grateful that this has heightened awareness about issues beyond our safe environments, specifically combatting famine in Ethiopia, and has raised a substantial amount of money. Thanks to Netflix for creating this wonderful documentary. It really gave me goosebumps.

The documentary is Chefs kiss. I love Michael Jackson's songs and We Are The World is no exception. It's so catchy and I love harmonizing along with the artists. I enjoyed this documentary. I had always wanted to see something like it. To go behind the scenes, and it did not disappoint. From the song creation process - which is something I always wonder about as a music listener, to the retakes to the teamwork to the balancing of egos. I appreciated the no-holds-barred , honest interviews and I'm so grateful they took videos that night. I resonated with what Diana Ross voiced ie she didn't want that night to be over. I didnt want the Docu to be over either. When it began, you could tell they were all nervous, but as it went on, it became everybody's favorite project and everybody brought their A game. Lionel Richie as a narrator is so good. Great sense of humour and sharp memory. You could see from the documentary that the artists cared for the cause and cared even more for the craft and had an admiration and respect for each other, despite their differences in ages , skin color or accolades. Loved the autograph scene. I loved that all the artists were trying on such short notice, and adapting their vocal ranges as they went along. Hueys narrations were vivid and beautiful. He is a captivating storyteller. MJ came across as so humble and a perfectionist, Quincy Jones = a genius, Al was hilarious, and I loved that he and Stevie are multilingual. Bruce Springsteen got the Midas touch and aging like fine wine. Stevie Wonder - how does he make playing the piano and singing look so effortless? It truly was a highlight for me, seeing him work his magic. Harry Belafonte, God bless you for thinking of this concept. Ray Charles, iconic. Lionel's voice as the song starts, is absolutely pristine. MJs voice is angelic. Cyndi Lauper coming through with the harmonization has always been one of my fave bits of the song. It's interesting to see that part play out in the Docu. Tina Turner - goodness, what a goddess. I love Prince but I know most artists are like Bob (Dylan) and Prince, introverts who'd rather work alone so I understand. I'm grateful Bob Dylan showed up. It was for a good cause. A great cause. It was great to see how demanding artists are of themselves even when they are top of their game. They are still perfectionists. I learnt something there. Loved MJs outfit and as a dear fan, I really appreciated insights into his songwriting process. Seeing him collaborate with Richie to come up with the melody was awesome. So casually too. Geniuses make it look easy. It's nice to see his siblings there to support him. Steve Perry's vocals - wow. James Ingram. I could go on and on. This docu had everything: the tea, the laughs, the love, the tears, the emotions, the high notes, just...a delectable mix. I enjoyed it and it makes me sad that we are at an age where the icons have left or are leaving us. Nothing lasts forever but it was good while it lasted. I'm glad this song is here with us. Two quotes I loved from the show, to paraphrase: 1) How music is something spiritual that traverses space and time to come touch your soul 2) Be happy when you comeback home because one day there'll be no home to come back to. Whew! That last one was emotional. I LOVED the Docu and I LOVE the song. Shout out to Bob Geldof for the inspiration. #TheGreatestNightInPop #Netflix.