Sheeran wishes he wasn't on the new Band Aid song

Ed Sheeran, a well-known musician, has recently expressed his concerns regarding the new version of the charity song Do They Know It's Christmas? This song was originally created to raise funds for those suffering from famine in Ethiopia back in 1984. Ed participated in a special 30th-anniversary version of the song in 2014, where he sang alongside other famous artists like Coldplay, Sam Smith, and One Direction. However, he was surprised to learn that his vocals were used again in a new 40th-anniversary version without his permission. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, Ed stated that if he had been asked, he would have 'respectfully' declined the request. He explained that his understanding of the issues surrounding such charity initiatives has evolved over the years, particularly after reading a post by British-Ghanian rapper Fuse ODG, who has been critical of foreign aid in Africa. Ed mentioned, 'A decade on and my understanding of the narrative associated with this has changed, eloquently explained by @fuseodg. ' He hopes that his perspective is a positive one and encourages a forward-looking approach to charity work. Fuse ODG, who also declined to participate in the 2014 version of Band Aid, shared his thoughts on the matter. He believes that charity initiatives like Band Aid can perpetuate harmful stereotypes about Africa, portraying it as a continent in need of rescue rather than one with potential and opportunities. He stated, 'I recognised the harm initiatives like it inflict on Africa. ' Fuse ODG argues that while these charity efforts may generate sympathy and donations, they often fuel pity rather than partnership. He wants to empower Africans to tell their own stories and redefine their identity, positioning Africa as a thriving hub for investment and tourism. The BBC has reached out to Band Aid for a response to the comments made by Ed Sheeran and Fuse ODG. The latest version of Do They Know It's Christmas? was announced recently and will feature a mix of different versions of the charity single recorded over the years. This new 'ultimate mix' will include contributions from various artists, such as Boy George, Harry Styles, and Paul McCartney. The premiere of this new version is set for November 25, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the original song's recording. Sir Bob Geldof, who co-wrote the original song, has defended Band Aid, emphasizing the number of lives it has saved over the years. He pointed out that the charity single was created to address the famine crisis in Ethiopia during the 1980s. However, the song's lyrics have faced criticism for their portrayal of Africa as a place that requires Western intervention. Some critics argue that the song is more about making Western audiences feel good than genuinely helping those in need. In response to these criticisms, Sir Bob stated, 'This little pop song has kept hundreds of thousands if not millions of people alive. ' He highlighted that Band Aid has provided significant financial support to help those affected by violence in Sudan and to feed children in Ethiopia. Sir Bob believes that the song has made a meaningful impact on the lives of many individuals, allowing them to feel safer and cared for. The ongoing discussion surrounding Ed Sheeran's comments and the new version of the song highlights the complexities of charity work and the importance of considering the perspectives of those it aims to help. It raises questions about how to approach charitable initiatives in a way that respects the dignity and agency of the communities involved.