"We are the World" in charts after Jackson tribute

(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-07-17 09:40

NEW YORK – Last week's star-studded public memorial for Michael Jackson helped send "We Are the World" onto the charts for the first time since it came out in 1985.

The charity tune, which Jackson co-wrote with Lionel Richie, was revived at the July 7 memorial when the performers, friends and family members gathered on the Staples Center stage at the end for a sing-along.

The original track, credited to USA for Africa, debuted at No. 50 on Billboard's Hot Digital Songs chart on Thursday. In 1985, it topped Billboard's Hot 100, Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Adult Contemporary charts.

Other Jackson entries on the Hot Digital Songs chart included "You Are Not Alone," which jumped 11 places to No. 17; "Human Nature," reinvented at the celebration as a guitar instrumental by John Mayer, which rose 26 places to No. 21; and "I'll Be There," covered at the event by Mariah Carey and Trey Lorenz, which rose nine to No. 31.