Release Date and Core Facts
The song "That's What Friends Are For" was first released in 1985 as part of the soundtrack for the film "Night Shift." The track was later re-recorded by Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, and Elton John for charity, becoming a major hit. The official release date for the charity single was in 1985, and it quickly climbed the charts. The song's publishing rights are managed by major music publishers, with details available through industry databases like ASCAP (https://www.ascap.com). The track is widely cited in financial discussions about charitable fundraising and intellectual property royalties.
In terms of financial impact, the song generated significant revenue through licensing and sales. The primary rights holders and associated record labels have tracked its performance across decades. For current royalty distribution frameworks, the mechanical licensing ecosystem is documented by the Harry Fox Agency (https://www.harryfox.com). The song remains a reference point in case studies about high-profile charity singles and their long-term financial footprint.
Artists, Production, and Commercial Performance
The 1985 charity version featured Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, and Elton John, with production handled by industry veterans. The single was released under Arista Records and became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Its commercial success is often analyzed in the context of artist collaborations and market impact. Billboard's official chart archives provide verified data on its peak positions and longevity (https://www.billboard.com).
The commercial performance of the track is also documented by the Recording Industry Association of America, which awarded it certification for sales milestones. The RIAA database (https://www.riaa.com) offers searchable records of gold and platinum awards. The song's enduring popularity continues to generate streaming revenue and sync licensing income for the rights holders.
Charitable Impact and Financial Legacy
The primary beneficiary of the charity single was the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR). The foundation has published financial reports detailing how proceeds from the song contributed to research and public awareness. amfAR's official site (https://www.amfAR.org) provides historical context on the fundraising campaign and its outcomes. The financial legacy of the track is tied to ongoing royalty flows and charitable contributions.
In the broader financial landscape, the song is a case study in the economics of charitable music projects. Its success demonstrated the commercial viability of artist-driven philanthropy, influencing future fundraising models. The SEC filings of major record labels sometimes reference iconic charity singles as part of their intellectual property portfolios (https://www.sec.gov). The release date and subsequent commercial journey remain key data points for music industry financial analysis.