The star of "Shape of You," in a recent statement, revealed that he would have "courteously declined" any invitation to participate, proceeding to share another post that criticized foreign aid efforts in Africa. The refreshed version of this festive anthem combines past recordings to forge an "ultimate" medley from Band Aid 1984, featuring the vocal talents of George Michael, Sting, and Boy George, alongside modern artists like Harry Styles, Chris Martin, and the Sugababes, who lent their voices to Band Aid 20 and Band Aid 30 in 2004 and 2014 respectively.
Prior to this, Sheeran had contributed to Band Aid 30 alongside One Direction, Sam Smith, and Coldplay's Chris Martin. The 33-year-old crooner penned in an Instagram story, "I was not consulted about this new Band Aid 40 release, and if given a choice, I would have politely declined the use of my voice." He continued, "A decade has passed, and my perspective on the narrative surrounding this has evolved, as eloquently articulated by @fuseodg. This is purely my personal stance, one that I hope is progressive. Love to all."
Sheeran referenced a post by Ghanaian-English singer, songwriter, and rapper Fuse ODG, who had collaborated with him on the track "Boa Me." Fuse ODG revealed that a decade ago, he "refused" to be part of Band Aid 30 because, in his view, while the charity garnered "sympathy and donations, it perpetuated harmful stereotypes that hindered Africa's economic growth, tourism, and investment."
The rapper further stated, "By displaying dehumanizing imagery, these initiatives cultivate pity rather than foster partnerships, discouraging meaningful engagement. My mission has been to reclaim the narrative, empowering Africans to narrate their own stories, redefine their identity, and position Africa as a thriving center for investment and tourism." He added, "Today, the diaspora contributes the largest influx of funds back to the continent, not Band Aid or foreign aid, proving that Africa's solutions and progress lie within its own grasp."
Sheeran has also collaborated with other African artists, including Nigerian singers Fireboy DML and Burna Boy. The original Band Aid single, released in 1984, featured artists led by Boomtown Rats' frontman Bob Geldof and Ultravox's Midge Ure, aiming to support charities working with starving children in Ethiopia. It sold a million copies in its first week alone.
For the new rendition, the singers will be accompanied by the Band Aid house band comprising Sir Paul McCartney, Sting, Duran Duran's John Taylor, Phil Collins, Queen's Roger Taylor, Supergrass's Danny Goffey, Radiohead's Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood, Paul Weller, Damon Albarn, Ure, Gary Kemp, and Justin Hawkins. Premiering on November 25th, the song will also be physically released on November 29th, with a minimum donation of £5 to the Band Aid Trust for every vinyl sale, £1.50 for every CD sale, and 50p for every digital download.
