On September 11, 2001, the world watched in horror as terrorists attacked the United States. In response to the tragedy, Michael Jackson, driven by his history of using music for social change, envisioned a powerful anthem for healing and unity. This vision materialized as “What More Can I Give,” a star-studded charity single featuring some of the biggest names in music.
This article delves into the poignant history of “What More Can I Give,” exploring its origins, the impressive roster of artists involved, the reasons behind its delayed release, and its lasting impact.
From ‘Heal L.A.’ to ‘What More Can I Give’: A Song’s Journey
The story of “What More Can I Give” begins long before 9/11. In 1992, following the Los Angeles riots sparked by the Rodney King verdict, Michael began collaborating with songwriter Brad Buxer on a song initially titled “Heal L.A.” The song, expressing a desire for unity and understanding, would become the foundation for “What More Can I Give.”
Work on the song continued intermittently as Michael focused on other projects, including his 1995 album HIStory: Past, Present and Future. However, the song’s message of hope and compassion resonated deeply with him.
A pivotal moment occurred in 1999 when Michael met with Nelson Mandela. Inspired by their conversation about the power of giving, the phrase “what more can I give” took hold in Michael’s mind, eventually becoming the title and central message of the song.
A Chorus of Voices: The Star-Studded Collaboration
Following the 9/11 attacks, Michael felt compelled to complete the song. He rewrote some lyrics to reflect the tragedy’s impact and reached out to fellow musicians to join him in this musical endeavor for healing.
The response was overwhelming. A constellation of stars, including Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Luther Vandross, and many others, answered his call, eager to contribute their voices to a cause that transcended music.
The recording sessions were filled with a sense of purpose and unity. Artists from diverse backgrounds and musical styles came together, united by a shared desire to offer comfort and support through the power of music.
Michael Jackson with other artists recording the song "What More Can I Give"
The Roadblocks to Release: A Song Silenced
Despite the song’s completion and the artists’ generosity, “What More Can I Give” faced a series of obstacles that prevented its immediate release. Michael’s strained relationship with his record label, Sony Music, played a significant role in the delays.
The label, embroiled in a public dispute with Michael over his album Invincible, seemed hesitant to support the single’s release. This fueled speculation that the label’s actions were motivated by the ongoing conflict rather than genuine concern for the song’s potential impact.
Adding to the complexity, the rights to the song were entangled in legal battles, further hindering its distribution through traditional channels. Despite these setbacks, Michael remained determined to share the song’s message with the world.
A Glimmer of Hope: The Song Finds Its Audience
In October 2001, a glimmer of hope emerged when “What More Can I Give” received its first public performance at the United We Stand: What More Can I Give benefit concert in Washington, D.C. The concert, organized to honor the victims of 9/11 and raise funds for their families, provided a poignant backdrop for the song’s debut.
The performance, featuring Michael and a chorus of artists, was a testament to the song’s enduring power and the artists’ unwavering commitment to its message. The event raised millions of dollars for 9/11 charities, demonstrating the unifying force of music in times of crisis.
A year later, defying the legal and logistical hurdles, New York radio station WKTU-FM played “What More Can I Give” on air, introducing the song to a wider audience. The station’s decision to share the song, even without official permission, highlighted the public’s desire to hear Michael’s message of hope and unity.
A Digital Debut and a Lasting Legacy
In 2003, “What More Can I Give” finally became available to the public as a digital download. The release, though long delayed, offered a glimmer of hope that the song could reach a global audience and fulfill its intended purpose of raising funds for charity.
Despite these efforts, “What More Can I Give” never received the full-scale commercial release it deserved. The song remains largely absent from streaming services, its powerful message somewhat obscured by the passage of time and the complexities of its release.
However, the legacy of “What More Can I Give” endures. The song stands as a testament to Michael Jackson’s unwavering commitment to using his platform for good, his belief in the power of music to heal and unite, and his enduring message of hope in the face of adversity.
Even though it remains largely unheard by the wider public, “What More Can I Give” serves as a reminder of the healing power of music and the importance of coming together in times of crisis. It’s a song that, despite its troubled history, continues to inspire hope and encourage acts of kindness and compassion.
