Ed Sheeran is unhappy his vocals have been used on a Band Aid 40th anniversary single, claiming the initiative perpetuates “damaging stereotypes” of Africa. The Telegraph has more.
The singer performed on a 2014 version of Do They Know It’s Christmas?, alongside One Direction, Ellie Goulding and Sam Smith.
To mark 40 years since Sir Bob Geldof put the original single together, a new “ultimate mix” is being released which blends the different versions.
However, Sheeran said in a post on Instagram: “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… This is just my personal stance. I’m hoping it’s a forward looking one. Love to all x.”
Sheeran said the issue has been “eloquently explained” by the British-Ghanaian songwriter and rapper Fuse ODG, who is a friend of his.
He linked to a post in which Fuse ODG wrote: “Ten years ago, I refused to participate in Band Aid because I recognised 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 dehumanising imagery, these initiatives fuel pity rather than partnership, discouraging meaningful engagement.”
Worth reading in full.
It’s always someone else’s fault, isn’t it? Africa is beset by endemic corruption, backwards cultural practices and persistent civil war and violence. But what’s holding the continent back isn’t all that, no, it’s Bob Geldof and the rest of the evil white men who insist on taking pity on the plight of the continent and try to offer some assistance. Shame on them. Don’t they know Africa would be Singapore were it not for the involvement of patronising whitey? Oh, er, hang on.
It’s notable that there’s no new assembly of pop stars for the 40th anniversary, just a remix. Back in 2014 the Great Awokening was in its early days and you could still gather right-on musicians to sing for Africa. I bet you couldn’t now, which is why they haven’t tried. Sheeran couldn’t even allow the remix to pass without recording his pious condemnation of the unapologetic spectacle. The question is, will others now join him in his “forward looking” stance by distancing themselves from the song and make Geldof wish he hadn’t bothered?
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