4 days Ago By Aisha Nozari, Tatiana Krisztina
Ed Sheeran has expressed his disapproval over the use of his vocals in the new Band Aid 40 release without his consent. The "Shape of You" singer had originally recorded his part for the Band Aid 30's rendition of the holiday charity classic "Do They Know It's Christmas ?" back in 2014. To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the original hit, which was released in 1984 to raise funds and awareness for famine in Africa under the leadership of Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, the 2024 Ultimate Mix was announced.
This mix features artists from both the original and 2014 versions singing together. However, Ed, who shares vocals with Sting, has since stated that he did not approve of his vocals being used for the remix. Zayn Malik reschedules tour dates due to ‘unforeseen circumstances’ following Liam Payne’s death Taylor Swift's 2024 London concerts cost taxpayers nearly $900,000 for security He further explained his discomfort with the "narrative" surrounding the song a decade later by re-sharing a post by Ghanaian-English star Fuse ODG on his Instagram Story.
He wrote: "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. "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," reports the Mirror . Rapper Fuse ODG made headlines for rejecting the chance to join the 2014 Band Aid supergroup, which featured stars like One Direction, Sam Smith, Ellie Goulding, and original member Bono.
He slammed the charity song for its negative impact on Africa, claiming it "cost the continent trillions" by hindering "economic growth, tourism and investment" with its "dehumanizing imagery." In a powerful statement, Fuse said: "We Know It's Christmas. Ten years ago, I refused to participate in Band Aid because I recognized the harm initiatives like it inflict on Africa.
"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 dehumanizing imagery, these initiatives fuel pity rather than partnership discouraging meaningful engagement." He continued his advocacy by stating: "My mission has been to reclaim the narrative, empowering Africans to tell their own stories, redefine their identity, and reposition Africa as a thriving hub for investment and tourism.
" He concluded with a strong message: "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." Fans can look forward to the 'Ultimate Mix' streaming on November 25, and the BBC will release the documentary 'The Making of Do They Know It's Christmas' on BBC Four on November 29. Furthermore, Fuse urged his followers to request the broadcaster to remove the film from its schedule by tagging @BBC and re-posting Ed's message.
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