The 40th-anniversary megamix of Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” has been released. The song has caused a renewed debate about the way the song portrays Africa. The “ultimate mix” blends vocals from many versions of the charity single that were recorded over the years. The new mix allows for duets and harmonies between unlikely pairings. Despite this, Ed Sheeran has objected to his vocals being recycled for the new track as the “narrative” has changed, and he said he would have declined permission had he been asked.
Spandau Ballet singer Tony Hadley, who sang on the original 1984 single, responded to Sheeran’s objections by saying that people who criticize the song’s intentions “should shut up, to be honest.” The charity single was made to support what was happening in Ethiopia. Hadley explained that everyone is doing their part to support various charities. Band Aid Charitable Trust has raised almost £150m to date.
Midge Ure, who co-wrote the track, said the criticisms that the song perpetuates “damaging stereotypes” about Africa were “unfortunate.” Ure acknowledged that Band Aid’s approach has inspired talk of a ‘white saviour complex.’ However, he explained that the song was not about portraying Africa negatively, but instead highlighting the real-life consequences of famine, conflict, and war.
The new mix includes a sample of Michael Buerk’s 1984 harrowing BBC News report from Ethiopia. It inspired Sir Bob Geldof to create the song. Despite criticisms of the song, Sir Bob reminded listeners that the project was about more than the song. Rather, every copy sold or streamed “connects directly to that meal and that child, or that broken woman or that farmer who just can’t grow something because of climate change, drought or flooding or whatever.
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