Ed Sheeran has voiced his disapproval over the inclusion of his vocals in a new 40th-anniversary version of Do They Know It’s Christmas?, stating that he was not consulted beforehand.
The singer revealed on Instagram that he would have “respectfully declined” the use of his vocals, aligning with the critical views expressed by British-Ghanaian rapper Fuse ODG regarding the portrayal of Africa in the song.
Sheeran participated in the Band Aid 30 rendition in 2014, joining artists like Coldplay, Sam Smith, and Rita Ora.
However, a new mix set to be released next week combines his vocals with Sting’s from the original 1984 version.
“My approval wasn’t sought on this new Band Aid 40 release,” Sheeran wrote, adding, “Had I had the choice, I would have respectfully declined.”
He referred to Fuse ODG’s concerns about the harmful stereotypes perpetuated by the song and noted that his own perspective had evolved over the past decade.
Fuse ODG, who declined to participate in Band Aid 30, explained his stance in a social media post.
“I refused to participate in Band Aid because I recognised the harm initiatives like it inflict on Africa,” he wrote.
Fuse criticized the charity single for reinforcing stereotypes of Africa as a land of famine and poverty, which he argued undermine the continent’s dignity, economic growth, and tourism.
Speaking to BBC Radio 1’s Newsbeat, Fuse ODG elaborated on the damaging effects of such portrayals.
“When I first saw the Band Aid videos as a child, the images were so negative that I wanted to disassociate myself from being African because there was no sense of pride in it,” he said.
In 2014, he reportedly urged Bob Geldof, one of the song’s creators, to adopt a more collaborative approach that emphasized solidarity rather than charity.
The upcoming release of Do They Know It’s Christmas? marks 40 years since the song’s creation to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia.
The new “ultimate mix” will feature contributions from artists across the decades, including Harry Styles, George Michael, Bono, and Paul McCartney.
It is set to premiere on November 25 on British radio stations.
Despite its charitable intentions, the song has faced mounting criticism over the years for its patronizing lyrics and depiction of Africa.
Critics argue that such narratives perpetuate a colonial mindset, focusing more on Western altruism than on the needs and dignity of the people it claims to help.
Responding to recent critiques, Sir Bob Geldof defended the song’s legacy.
Writing over the weekend, he emphasized its tangible impact, stating that Band Aid continues to fund critical humanitarian efforts, such as supporting victims of violence in Sudan and aiding children in Ethiopia.
“This little pop song has kept hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of people alive,” he asserted, rejecting accusations of colonialism.
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