It started with a song about what connects us. It became something bigger when Jason McCoy and Michelle Wright travelled to Zimbabwe with World Vision Canada and saw that message firsthand.
Today, McCoy brings that experience to life with “We Are One,” a new single that brings together the Harlem Gospel Choir and an all-star lineup of Canadian artists, including Aaron Pritchett, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Chad Brownlee, Chris Thorsteinson of Doc Walker, Clayton Bellamy, Dan Davidson, Deric Ruttan, Gordie Johnson, Irvin Miller, Jason Blaine, Michelle Wright, Patricia Conroy, Sully Burrows and Tim Hicks.
Written by McCoy and Jim Payetta, “We Are One” powerfully captures the mission and heart of World Vision Canada – ‘the miles may divide us, but love will unite us’ — advocating for life in all its fullness for every child, everywhere. Starting with warm acoustic guitars, piano, and organ, it builds into a soaring, gospel-inspired arrangement, with a roomful of voices uniting around one simple but profound truth: all children matter, all voices matter. Ultimately, “We Are One” underscores that we are truly one humanity, calling us to stand together and make a difference.
“‘We Are One’ is a reminder that we’re all connected. No matter where we live, every child deserves hope, opportunity, and the chance to dream,” said McCoy. “That’s why partnering with World Vision Canada on this project means so much to me. I hope this song inspires people to not only listen, but to become part of something bigger than themselves.”
“My time in Zimbabwe was life-changing, and being a part of the video for the song ‘We Are One’ added some fun to the whole experience for all of us. I think the song title says it all. Spending time with the children and their families reinforced for me how alike we all are, and how, after seeing it firsthand, the basics in life like clean running water and education can change the quality of life for these people in such a significant way and create a brighter future for this generation and those to come,” said Michelle Wright. “At the end of the day, we all want the same things for our children: hope, opportunity, happiness, and a better tomorrow. That shared hope connects us all because, after all, ‘We Are One’.”
The song’s message comes to life in its official music video, which incorporates footage captured during McCoy and Michelle Wright’s trip to Zimbabwe with World Vision Canada. Through the experience, the artists saw the organization’s impact firsthand, meeting children, families and communities whose lives are being transformed through its programs. The footage brings a personal dimension to “We Are One,” connecting the voices heard on the recording with the children at the heart of its message.
“Having Jason and Michelle join us in Zimbabwe to witness World Vision Canada’s work firsthand was truly meaningful. They came with open hearts and a genuine desire to listen, learn, and connect with the children, families, and communities we serve. Seeing their experience reflected in the ‘We Are One’ music video is a powerful reminder that music can do more than inspire – it can build bridges, create understanding and move people to take action,” said Amanda Power, Entertainment Partnerships, World Vision Canada. “We thank Jason, Michelle, and all the incredible artists who came together to share this message of hope, compassion, and unity. Their voices highlight the strength and resilience of communities worldwide and remind us that, when we come together, we can create lasting change for children and families.”
This fall, McCoy, alongside Michelle Wright and Doc Walker, will take The Great Canadian Roadtrip across the country, incorporating World Vision Canada into the tour through on-stage storytelling, video and opportunities for audiences to learn more about the organization’s work with children and families.
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Find out more about World Vision Canada here.
