U2 frontman Bono was approached by former Black Eyed Peas star Will.i.am to collaborate on a new track #Sing4Life.
The American star was impressed when he heard Bono’s song, which was recently written after the singer saw Italians singing from their balconies as they stayed in during the coronavirus pandemic.
Will.i.am appeared on Good Morning Britain to discuss how he got involved in the project.
He said: “I got really moved and inspired by it and I added to it and I sent it to him on the thread.
“Since then, he had put it up on Instagram and we talked about creating a baton so people at home can participate – whether they’re just listening to it or commenting or singing along or making their own renditions.
“There’s lots of musicians out there in the world that can continue to spread awesome, productive vibes out there in these times.”
The collaboration also features stars such as Jennifer Hudson and Japanese musician Yoshiki.
Will.i.am also defended Wonder Woman star Gal Gardot and several celebrities who took part in a video of themselves singing the John Lennon song Imagine.
Some critics had suggested that they had misjudged the public mood and the stars were mocked on social media.
However, Will.i.am believes the criticism was undeserved and said the stars were doing what they could to uplift people’s spirits.
He said: “One thing we cannot do when people are trying to uplift everyone’s spirit is judging.
“So, the folks that did the rendition of Imagine, they were doing the best that they can to lift everybody’s spirits up.”
“Right now, is not the time to be super-critical or judgemental, we’re supposed to entertain.
“We’re supposed to uplift everyone’s spirits, and I applaud them for their efforts.
““This was created to bring joy and uplift everyone’s spirits during these times.
“And it’s singing for life in appreciation of all the medics and all the nurses and all the folks that are trying to nurse people back and keep health at the highest level.
“During these times of concern and during this outbreak we just want to spread love and bring joy.”
Take a look at the video for #Sing4Life below
Written by Michael Kehoe @michaelcalling