Dan Aykroyd Sings We Are the World

Saturday Night Live actors frequently go on to have diverse and interesting careers in pop culture, but few have done more than Dan Aykroyd. The legendary star of Ghostbusters and the Blues Brothers is also a writer and singer. He even makes wine, but let's get back to the singing.

Aykroyd is obviously a music fan. His appearances in the Blues Brothers films have demonstrated this, first in the original 1980 film and then nearly 20 years later in the sequel. He was also a co-founder of the House of Blues restaurant chain. Outside of the Blues Brothers, one of the few places you'll ever hear him sing is on the 1985 charity single "We Are The World."

Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie wrote the song, which was recorded to benefit famine relief in Africa. The single sold over 20 million copies, making it one of the all-time best-selling singles. It features a who's who of 80s music legends such as Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, and dozens more. Dan Aykroyd, too. But why is that?

Aykroyd was interviewing a business manager in the building where the song was being recorded. It was the incorrect location. He was in a talent manager's office. He agreed when the man asked if he wanted to be on the recording because he was already there.

Year: 1985