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Next week, a 40th anniversary version of Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” arrives, and it features Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Sinead O’Connor, Sam Smith, One Direction, and Rita Ora. However, Sheeran made a post today saying he would have declined the use of his vocals if he was asked permission.
The song, produced by Trevor Horn, combines the original with previous anniversary editions. “My approval wasn’t sought on this new Band Aid 40 release,” the singer wrote. “Had I had the choice I would have respectfully declined the use of my vocals.” Sheeran referred to Fuse ODG’s criticism of Band Aid for reasoning: “I refused to participate in Band Aid because I recognised the harm initiatives like it inflict on Africa,” the British-Ghanaian rapper explained on social media.
“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,” he continued.
Ed Sheeran says his “approval wasn’t sought” on the 40th-anniversary mix of Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”. He said: “I would’ve respectfully declined. A decade on and my understanding of the narrative associated with this has changed, eloquently explained by @FuseODG” pic.twitter.com/Qxo23igHjU
— Dionne Grant (@DionneGrant) November 18, 2024
English (US) · 