Controversy Surrounds 40th Anniversary of Band Aid

The remixed version of Band Aid's 'Do They Know It’s Christmas?', celebrating its 40th anniversary, features contributions from various artists including Ed Sheeran, but has stirred controversy as Sheeran reportedly did not consent to the use of his voice. The new 'Ultimate Mix', produced by Trevor Horn, combines recordings from 1984, 2004, and 2014, and includes deceased artists like David Bowie and George Michael. While some fans praise the track for its charitable intent, critics argue it perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Africa, with notable backlash from individuals like Dawit Giorgis, who finds the lyrics insulting. The original 1984 release, aimed at fundraising for the Ethiopian famine, has been criticized over the years for its portrayal of Africa. Despite the ongoing debate, many acknowledge that the fundraising efforts did save lives during a critical time. The song's legacy continues to evoke mixed feelings about its historical context and impact on perceptions of Africa.