By Charlie Gardner

Critics of the new Live Aid single have raised several concerns about perpetuating outdated and damaging stereotypes about Africa.

They argue that the lyrics and imagery of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” paint Africa as a helpless continent in need of saving by the West. The song’s portrayal of Africa as a place where “nothing ever grows” and “no rain or river flow” is seen as inaccurate and insulting. Ethiopia, for example, has a rich agricultural history and diverse climates.  

Ed Sheeran, who originally featured on the 2014 version of the track, claimed he wasn’t asked permission from Band Aid 40 organisers to use his vocals on the new version.

He took to Instagram on Sunday and reshared a message from Ghanaian British musician Fuse ODG, which said: “It dehumanises Africans and destroys our pride and identity in the name of ‘charity’.” 

Fuse ODG went on to say that he’s making it his mission to “reclaim the narrative [...] and position Africa as a thriving hub for investment and tourism.” 

Marking the 40th anniversary of the legendary song, a new version was released on 25 November, accompanied by a special video. With the original, they’ve raised millions for famine relief in Ethiopia and brought attention to the world’s worst humanitarian crisis of the 20th century.  

Bob Geldof and Midge Ure wrote the song after seeing news reports about the famine in Africa. The single was released on 7 December 1984 and became the UK’s best-selling single at the time, raising £8mn. The Band Aid Charitable Trust was then established to support organisations that prevent and relieve famine and poverty.  

To mark the 20th anniversary of the original, another version was recorded in 2004 with a new generation of artists. It topped the UK charts once again and raised significant funds for ongoing humanitarian efforts. 

The 2014 version was released to combat the Ebola crisis in West Africa as it continued the tradition of using music to address urgent global issues. The song was a massive success and raised millions for Ebola relief efforts.

Each version of the Live Aid single has not only raised substantial funds for various crises but also heightened public awareness and inspired global action. The recurring success of these singles underscores the power of music in mobilising support for humanitarian causes. 

Producer Trevor Horn has helmed the new version of the song, which was first recorded exactly 40 years ago, to raise money for famine relief in Ethiopia. The new “ultimate mix” blends vocals from several versions of the charity single that have been recorded over the years, so that George Michael duets with Harry Styles, and Chris Martin harmonises with the Sugababes.

Bob Geldof and Harvey Goldsmith have been actively defending the new Live Aid single amidst the controversy. Geldof addressed the backlash on CNN, responding to criticisms from popular artists. He emphasised the song’s intention to raise awareness and funds for critical issues, along with defending its legacy, as well as its impact around the globe. 

Meanwhile, Goldsmith maintains that the initiative’s primary goal is to help those in need and believes the criticism is misplaced. He stresses the importance of focusing on the positive outcomes of the charity efforts. Their responses highlight a strong defence of the project’s intentions and its historical significance, despite the ongoing debate about its portrayal of Africa. 

The release of the new Live Aid single has sparked a wide range of reactions on social media and among the public. Many people appreciate the continued efforts to raise funds for important causes, with some fans expressing nostalgia and excitement about the revival of a classic charity single, seeing it as a meaningful tradition that brings people together for a good cause. 

The new Live Aid single: a controversy unfolds