The 40th-anniversary remake of Band Aid’s iconic charity single Do They Know It’s Christmas? has been unveiled, blending voices from various iterations of the song to create a unique “ultimate mix.”
Featuring a lineup that spans decades, the track pairs George Michael with Harry Styles, Chris Martin with the Sugababes, and even introduces new vocal takes.
However, the release has reignited criticism of the song’s portrayal of Africa, stirring mixed reactions from artists and listeners alike.
Ed Sheeran, whose vocals from a previous recording were used without his consent, expressed frustration, citing the narrative’s shift over time.
“I would have declined permission if I had been asked,” Sheeran said, aligning with British-Ghanaian rapper Fuse ODG’s critique that the song perpetuates damaging stereotypes about Africa as a continent reliant on Western aid.
Midge Ure, who co-wrote the original in 1984, acknowledged the longstanding criticism of Band Aid’s approach, including accusations of a “white savior complex.”
However, he defended the project’s intent, emphasizing its focus on addressing the real consequences of famine and conflict.
“It’s about helping children who need food, medication, and education,” Ure said.
Tony Hadley of Spandau Ballet dismissed Sheeran’s objections, asserting that critics risk undermining the song’s charitable mission.
“Do we sit back and do nothing?” he asked, highlighting the original single’s £8 million contribution to famine relief within its first year.
The new mix, produced by Trevor Horn, utilizes advanced machine-learning technology to merge vocals from previous versions, including those of Sinead O’Connor, Boy George, and Rita Ora.
The track opens with a haunting string arrangement featuring Paul Young, Bono, and Sheeran, while maintaining some controversial lyrics from the original.
The 1984 BBC news clip that inspired the project, narrated by Michael Buerk, is also included.
Despite its elaborate production, which layers Christmas motifs and emotional echoes, the song’s core message of hope and humanity remains.
Sir Bob Geldof, a driving force behind the Band Aid initiative, grew emotional during the premiere on BBC Radio 2, remembering late contributors like George Michael and David Bowie.
Geldof also responded to criticisms about the song’s portrayal of Africa, emphasizing the tangible impact of the charity’s work.
“This little pop song has kept millions of people alive,” he said, rejecting arguments to discontinue the project.
“We wish it were otherwise, but 600 million people are hungry today—300 million of them in Africa. This is our way of helping.”
However, the Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, joined a growing chorus of critics, noting that while the original effort was “well-meaning,” it oversimplified Africa’s rich cultural and historical identity.
He cautioned that a charity campaign failing to evolve could inadvertently do harm.
The anniversary release, steeped in nostalgia and controversy, highlights both the enduring power of music to inspire action and the complexities of addressing global issues in an evolving cultural landscape.
As Geldof reaffirmed, every sale or stream connects directly to providing a meal or aid to those in need, underscoring Band Aid’s mission despite ongoing debates.
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