Four decades ago, Bob Geldof and Midge Ure penned “Do They Know It’s Christmas” to aid famine victims in Ethiopia. The initiative raised significant funds but has since faced backlash for perpetuating harmful stereotypes about Africa. Critics argue the lyrics paint an inaccurate and patronizing picture of the continent, with lines like “where nothing ever grows/no rain or rivers flow” and “Do they know it’s Christmas time at all?” ignoring Africa’s diversity and Ethiopia’s predominantly Christian population.
Ed Sheeran, who participated in the 2014 re-release of the song, has taken a firm stance against its message. The 2014 version altered some problematic lyrics, swapping the aforementioned line for a reference to the Ebola crisis in West Africa. Yet, the 2024 rendition, Band Aid 40, which combines vocals from past versions, has reignited debates—and Sheeran has made it clear he no longer supports the initiative.
“My approval wasn’t sought on this new Band Aid 40 release,” Sheeran wrote in an Instagram Story, as reported by BBC News. “Had I had the choice, I would have respectfully declined the use of my vocals. A decade on, my understanding of the narrative associated with this has changed, eloquently explained by @fuseodg. This is just my personal stance. I’m hoping it’s a forward-looking one.”
Sheeran’s perspective echoes sentiments shared by Ghanaian-British artist Fuse ODG, a vocal critic of Band Aid. Fuse ODG has long refused to participate in Band Aid projects, asserting that such efforts perpetuate a cycle of pity that damages Africa’s global reputation. He emphasized, “While these initiatives may generate sympathy and donations, they reinforce stereotypes that undermine Africa’s economic growth, tourism, and investment. They strip the continent of its dignity and identity.”
Instead of relying on outdated narratives, Fuse ODG is reclaiming the story through his own music. He recently announced a counterpoint song, “We Know It’s Christmas,” which celebrates African achievements and progress. The proceeds from the song will fund grassroots projects aimed at uplifting African communities. “It’s time to take BACK control of our narrative,” Fuse ODG declared on Instagram.
While Fuse ODG and Sheeran call for rethinking Band Aid’s approach, Bob Geldof has responded to criticisms with characteristic defiance. Addressing claims of “colonial tropes” in “Do They Know It’s Christmas,” Geldof argued that the song’s legacy lies in its life-saving impact. “The money generated from the song has kept hundreds of thousands, if not millions, alive,” he said. Referring to a recent article critical of the song, Geldof added, “‘Colonial tropes’ my arse.”
The tension surrounding Band Aid highlights evolving discussions about aid, representation, and narratives surrounding Africa. As voices like Fuse ODG and Ed Sheeran push for more empowering portrayals, initiatives like “We Know It’s Christmas” mark a shift toward authentic storytelling that uplifts rather than diminishes.
Whether Geldof chooses to address Sheeran’s remarks remains to be seen. For now, the conversation about Band Aid’s legacy has taken a thought-provoking turn, challenging the charity industry to evolve alongside changing perspectives.
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