Ed Sheeran slams Band Aid 40 for using his vocals on new charity single without his permission and reveals why he would NOT have agreed.

Editor Stephen Hill 18th November 2024

Pop Singer Ed Sheeran recently made headlines by revealing that he was not asked for permission by the organizers of Band Aid 40 to include his vocals in a new version of the charity single "Do They Know It’s Christmas?" 

The 33-year-old artist originally participated in the 2014 version of the song, which was spearheaded by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure and featured names like Sting and Harry Styles.

 This release was intended to raise funds for Ebola relief efforts.  As the 2024 Ultimate Mix of the song approaches, which aims to celebrate its 40th anniversary, Ed expressed that he would have declined permission if asked to contribute his voice to this new iteration. 

  In a passionate Instagram post, Ed shared a powerful message from Ghanaian-British artist Fuse ODG, who has openly criticized the charity single, arguing that it "dehumanizes Africans and undermines our dignity and identity in the name of charity." Ed stated, "My approval wasn't sought on this new Band Aid 40 release, and had I the choice, I would have respectfully declined the use of my vocals. 

A decade later, my understanding of this narrative has evolved, as @fuseodg has eloquently explained. This is my personal stance, and I hope it reflects a progressive outlook. Love to all x."  Ed’s remarks resonate with Fuse ODG’s strong position on the charity song, particularly as he previously declined to participate in the Band Aid 30 project. In his statement, Fuse ODG, who collaborated with Ed on "Boa Me," emphasized that the original song perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Africa. 

He stated, "Ten years ago, I refused to take part in Band Aid, recognizing the damage such initiatives cause to the continent. While they may generate sympathy and funds, they reinforce stereotypes that hinder Africa's economic development, tourism, and investment, costing the continent trillions and damaging its pride and identity. By showcasing dehumanizing imagery, these efforts promote pity over partnership and discourage meaningful engagement."  Fuse ODG reiterated his mission to "reclaim the narrative, empowering Africans to share their own stories, redefine their identities, and position Africa as a flourishing center for investment and tourism." He concluded by highlighting, "Today, the diaspora generates the largest flow of funds back into the continent, not Band Aid or foreign aid, proving that Africa's solutions and growth are firmly in its own hand