Does the World Now Need Unifying Music? A Reflection on 40 Years of USA for Africa's Song

Forty years ago, in 1985, world musicians led by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson formed the music group United Support of Artists for Africa (USA for Africa) which produced a hit single that remains familiar to this day, titled "We Are The World." The issue that emerged and became a global conversation at that time was the severe famine affecting Ethiopia. Various estimates of the total death toll ranged from 400,000 to 1,000,000 people. Various aid from countries around the world was directed to Ethiopia. All eyes were on them, including in Indonesia where musician Iwan Fals also created a special song titled "Ethiopia" in 1986 to show his concern.

Returning to the USA for Africa group, the main purpose of creating this song was to raise funds through both single sales and concerts, the proceeds of which would be donated to the USA for Africa Foundation, to then channel aid to Ethiopia and other regions in Africa also suffering from famine. The song eventually exploded in the market and topped the charts in countries worldwide.

This is where music plays a role as a tool for diplomacy and propaganda, how music can influence markets, shape perceptions, move hearts and minds, and inspire real actions. Music is a universal language that knows no boundaries of ethnicity, ideology, or differences. Music can be enjoyed from various aspects according to the interests and preferences of its listeners.

Now the world is calling on musicians once again to show their contributions to the pressing global issues. On this World Music Day, it is time for musicians to open their eyes wide, listen more clearly, and ask themselves what they can do for world peace. Currently, the world is on the brink of destruction if what is feared actually comes to pass. The threat of World War III has become a hot topic of concern in today's world. The situation in the Middle East is increasingly worrying and poses a danger to the global order. If the Iran-Israel conflict spirals out of control, it will cause tremendous upheaval for human civilization. Once again, the innocent common people will be the victims.

The future of world peace is at stake due to the policies of rulers who may disregard the fate of ordinary people moving forward. Humanitarian disasters such as famine, waves of refugees, and outbreaks of disease will occur, ultimately leading to prolonged suffering. Learning from history, many wars have been initiated by the greed and ambitions of their leaders but ended in the suffering of the common people, the extinction of civilizations, and the loss of identity as a nation.

Where are the world's musicians now? Has the sense of concern for others faded due to the allure of a glamorous lifestyle? Forty years have passed since the song “We Are The World” was born. The world now needs something universal; perhaps music can alleviate it? Are there musicians whose hearts are touched and willing to take part in the urgency of the current situation? Forty years ago, it was able to unite the world; now, in this more modern technological era, it should not be difficult to unite perceptions to take action.

Happy World Music Day, the global community is now waiting.