Ed Sheeran says Band Aid 40 didn’t ask permission to use his vocals for new track
The singer shared a statement from Ghanaian-British singer Fuse ODG which accused the song of perpetuating negative stereotypes about Africa.
By Nick Reilly
Ed Sheeran has claimed that he wasn’t asked for permission to have his vocals used on the latest version of Band Aid’s ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’.
The stadium-filling British star, 33, featured on the 2014 version of the charity single which raised money for the fight against the African Ebola epidemic at the time.
Last week, it was announced that the track’s 40th anniversary will be marked by releasing an “ultimate mix” which sees vocals being combined from the original 1984 track and the 2004 and 2012 versions.
In a new post on Instagram Stories, Sheeran shared a comment from Ghanaian-British musician Fuse ODG, which accused the campaign of “[dehumanising] Africans and [destroying] our pride and identity in the name of ‘charity’”.
“My approval wasn’t sought on this new Band Aid 40 release and had I had the choice I would have respectfully declined the use of my vocals,” Sheeran wrote.
“A decade on and my understanding of the narrative associated with this has changed, eloquently explained by [Fuse ODG]. This is just my personal stance. I’m hoping it’s a forward-looking one. Love to all.”
Fuse ODG, meanwhile, has announced his own song ‘We Do Know It’s Christmas’ and explained how he previously turned down the chance to take part in Band Aid.
“Ten years ago, I refused to participate in Band Aid because I recognised the harm initiatives like it inflict on Africa,” he said.
“While they may generate sympathy and donations, they perpetuate damaging stereotypes that stifle Africa’s economic growth, tourism and investment, ultimately costing the continent trillions and destroying its dignity, pride and identity. By showcasing dehumanising imagery, these initiatives fuel pity rather than partnership discouraging meaningful engagement.”
Fuse went on to say that he strives to “reclaim the narrative, empowering Africans to tell their own stories, redefine their identity, and position Africa as a thriving hub for investment and tourism”.
“Today, the diaspora drives the largest flow of funds back into the continent, not Band Aid or foreign aid proving that Africa’s solutions and progress lies in its own hands,” he said.
Fuse also urged his followers to ask the BBC not to release a forthcoming documentary which celebrates the history of Band Aid.
The Making of Do They Know It’s Christmas, which outlines how the song was recorded over the course of a single day at a studio in London, is set to air at 9pm on BBC Four on November 29.
Earlier this year, Bob Geldof dismissed criticism of the song as “the greatest load of b****cks ever”. “If there was a famine in Italy and someone reacts and they’re white, are they a white saviour?” he asked. “Are the only people allowed to react to an African famine Black?”
He added: “This is a nonsensical, absolutely dismissive argument. It is. I think it’s rubbish.”
Rolling Stone UK has contacted Band Aid representatives for comment.