Ed Sheeran just revealed that he did not give his consent for his vocals to be used on the new Band Aid 40 release.
The “Perfect” singer originally recorded his part for Band Aid 30’s release of the festive charity classic ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ more than nine years ago, in 2014.
To mark the 40th anniversary of the original hit, which was released to raise money and awareness of famine in Africa in 1984 and spearheaded by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, the 2024 Ultimate Mix was announced, which includes artists who appeared on the original and the 2014 version sing alongside each other.
Sheeran, who sings with Sting, has since claimed he didn’t sign off on his vocals being used for the new remix.
“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,” Sheeran posted on his Instagram story.
“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.”, he continued, reports the Mirror.
Sheeran was referencing a lengthy Instagram story post from rapper Fuse ODG, who explained why he declined to join the single 10 years ago.
“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,” Fuse ODG wrote.
“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 continued.
“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,” he added.
Rapper Fuse ODG didn’t join the 2014 Band Aid supergroup, but stars such as One Direction, Sam Smith, Ellie Goulding, and Bono, did.
The ‘Ultimate Mix’ of the song will be available for streaming from November 25, and the BBC is set to air the documentary ‘The Making of Do They Know It’s Christmas’ on BBC Four come November 29.
For all the latest news straight to your inbox, sign up for our FREE newsletters here.
Furthermore, Fuse urged his fans to call on the BBC to remove the film from its lineup by tagging @BBC and re-posting Ed’s message.
For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here.
