Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina & More to Return to “American Idol” for Performance of “We Are the World”

During the season finale of American Idol on May 17, a number of Idol alum will return to the show to perform a special rendition of “We Are the World.”

Idol judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and Katy Perry will perform “We Are the World” with Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, Kellie Pickler, Laine Hardy, Gabby Barrett, Alejandro Aranda, Jordin Sparks, Katharine McPhee, Phillip Phillips and Ruben Studdard.

Penned by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson, “We Are the World” was recorded by an all-star group of artists in 1985 to benefit African famine relief. Vocalists on the Grammy-winning song included Stevie Wonder, Kenny Rogers, Billy Joel, Tina Turner, Ray Charles, Michael Jackson and more.

The season finale of American Idol airs on May 17 at 7 p.m. CT on ABC.

photos: Scotty McCreery by NCD; Gabby Barrett & Lauren Alaina by Tammie Arroyo, AFF-USA.com; Kellie Pickler by Curtis Hilbun, AFF-USA.com