Documentary director explains why Madonna and Prince did not participate in 'We Are the World' in 1985.

The retelling of the musical performance of "We Are the World" on Jan. 28, 1985, is one of the biggest nights in music history.

Bao Nguyen, director of "The Greatest Night in Pop," discussed the reasoning behind Madonna and Prince's exclusion from the legendary musical performance in an interview with Planet Chronicle Digital.

"Ken Kragen and his team, including Harriet Sternberg, had a different vision for the film. Harriet wanted Madonna, but Ken didn't think she was the right fit. He believed that Cyndi Lauper was already serving as the female pop icon at the time, and they were looking for distinct voices that represented their genre."

In 1985, "We Are The World," written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, was produced by U.S.A for Africa to promote a global hunger relief initiative.

According to Bao, the process resulted in Kenny Rogers performing and Lionel Richie representing the pop genre.

"Like Ray Charles, Ken has a unique voice that sets him apart," Nguyen said. "From my research, I believe Ken would ultimately choose Cyndi over Madonna."

Prince was not included in the legendary night that aired on March 7, 1985, according to Nguyen. He stated that he had discussions with Sheila E., a close friend of Prince at the time, who revealed that she was unable to persuade Prince to participate in the performance.

Bao explained that he wouldn't feel comfortable in that room and it was just the environment that caused him not to work well.

The reasons behind Madonna and Prince's exclusion from the 1985 'We Are the World' performance are explained by Bao Nguyen.

Sheila Escovedo, also known as Shelia E., was surprised by her role in the production and felt "used" leading up to the musical performance, as explained by Nguyen.

He began by saying that for him, Sheila E's role and trying to get friends to be part of it was definitely an eye-opening thing, although maybe not the wildest.

Bao Nguyen recounts his most memorable experience while filming the "We Are the World" documentary.

"In the film, she states that she believed she was being utilized to obtain Prince."

Lionel remained silent about that scene, as it was an honest story from Sheila E.'s perspective.

He said that he believed it was a vulnerable moment for her when she shared that story, as she had never spoken about it on camera before and opened up to them in a way that broke his heart.

Sheila E. has no regrets about being part of the songs, as she knows how meaningful it is to her and her legacy, according to Nguyen.

Lionel Richie was able to recount the entire story of "We Are the World" as told by Bao Nguyen.

Nguyen wonders if today's musicians can create a "We Are the World"-style performance, but doubts if there are modern-day icons like there were 40 years ago.

"Nguyen believes that "We Are the World" was an incredible accomplishment, despite being portrayed as impossible in the film. The song featured renowned artists such as Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Diana Ross. Nguyen wonders if we have similar iconic figures today."

Bao also pointed out social media that is present in today's generation.

"It is challenging to create a truly present moment on social media, as everyone has managers and agents, just like in 1985. Additionally, bringing people together in a room is also difficult."

Director Bao Nguyen shares the most unexpected scene from filming 'We Are the World'.

Nguyen believes that the recently released "The Greatest Night in Pop" documentary will inspire the younger generation of musicians.

"I hope this film inspires the younger generation, who believe that with determination, anything is possible," he stated.

"The Greatest Night in Pop" debuts on Netflix on Jan. 29.