Bob Geldof: Counter Ed Sheeran’s criticism of Band Aid

Bob Geldof (73) doesn’t want to let Ed Sheeran’s (33) criticism of Band Aid stand. Geldof defended his musical charity project and the song “Do They Know It’s Christmas”, a new edition of which was released today to mark its 40th birthday. This “Ultimate Mix” is composed of vocal parts from artists who participated in the 1984, 1989, 2004 and 2014 versions.

What had happened? Last week, Ed Sheeran accused Bob Geldof and the other Band Aid creators of using his voice for the 2024 version without asking him. The superstar was part of Band Aid 30 in 2014, who re-recorded the song to mark the 30th anniversary of the original release of “Do They Know It’s Christmas”.

But it wasn’t just about the fact that Ed Sheeran wasn’t asked to lend his voice to the “Ultimate Mix.” In this case, Sheeran would have “politely declined,” as he wrote in an Instagram story on November 17, 2024.

Over the course of a decade, Sheeran continued, his perception of the charity song has changed. To explain his change of heart, he shared a statement from the British-Ghanaian rapper Fuse ODG (35). He criticized that Band Aid and other charity projects would do more harm than good to Africa in the long term.

“While they may generate sympathy and donations, they perpetuate harmful stereotypes that slow economic growth, tourism and investment in Africa, ultimately costing the continent trillions and destroying its dignity, pride and identity,” Fuse ODG wrote.

“By depicting dehumanizing images, these initiatives fuel compassion rather than partnership and discourage meaningful engagement,” the rapper continued. For this reason he refused to take part in Band Aid 30 ten years ago.

But Bob Geldof does not want to accept such “abstract” arguments. He pointed out to The Sunday Times the practical effects of the different versions of “Do They Know It’s Christmas”. “This little pop song has kept millions of people alive,” said the Boomtown Rats singer.

“Why should Band Aid cut off care for the thousands of children who depend on us?” asked Geldof, rather rhetorically. According to the musician, 600 million people are hungry in the world, 300 million of them in Africa. “We wish it were different, but it isn’t. We can help some of them. And that’s what we’ll continue to do,” Geldof continued. He doesn’t address the arguments of Ed Sheeran, Fuse ODG and other critics, although, as he says, he doesn’t want to deny their legitimacy.

According to Bob Geldof, Band Aid has raised $176 million over the years to benefit health care and education in Africa.