Greatest Hits Radio Plans 10-Hour Live Aid Broadcast For 40th Anniversary

Greatest Hits Radio will commemorate the 40th anniversary of Live Aid with a 10-hour special broadcast on July 13, 2025, featuring the original performances from the Wembley Stadium concert, including iconic sets by Queen, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, and The Who. Hosted by Simon Mayo, who attended the event as a paying customer, the special will include commentary from Live Aid performers like Martin Kemp and insights from cast members of the upcoming Live Aid musical Just For One Day. The broadcast, a UK radio first, is produced in partnership with the Band Aid Charitable Trust and will conclude with the final episode of the documentary series Live Aid: 40 Years On, which features exclusive interviews with key figures such as Bob Geldof, Midge Ure, and Queen’s Roger Taylor and Brian May. The event originally reached an estimated 1.9 billion viewers worldwide and raised over £114 million for famine relief in Ethiopia, though it has faced criticism for perpetuating certain perceptions of Africa and controversies over aid distribution. Bob Geldof highlighted the re-broadcast as a reminder of music’s power and the ability of people to confront human suffering. This tribute aims to not only celebrate the historic concert but also educate new generations about its enduring impact and legacy.