Ed Sheeran Says He Didn’t Approve His Vocals for Band Aid 40 Anniversary Mix

Ed Sheeran has expressed his disapproval of his vocals being used in the 40th-anniversary mix of Band Aid’s Do They Know It’s Christmas?, reported by BBC. The singer revealed that organizers did not seek his permission to include his voice in the new version of the charity song.

In an Instagram Story, the Shape of You star wrote: “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, eloquently explained by @fuseodg. This is just my personal stance; I’m hoping it’s a forward-looking one. Love to all x.”

Sheeran appeared in the Band Aid 30 version of the song in 2014, alongside artists like One Direction, Sam Smith, and Coldplay’s Chris Martin. However, his stance has shifted, influenced by Ghanaian-English artist Fuse ODG, who publicly criticised Band Aid initiatives for perpetuating negative stereotypes about Africa.

Fuse ODG, who collaborated with Sheeran on Boa Me, explained his refusal to participate in Band Aid 30 a decade ago. He said, “While the charity helps get sympathy and donations, they perpetuate damaging stereotypes that stifle Africa’s economic growth, tourism, and investment. By showcasing dehumanising imagery, these initiatives fuel pity rather than partnership.”

Fuse ODG advocates for empowering Africans to tell their own stories and promote the continent as a thriving hub for investment and tourism, adding, “Africa’s solutions and progress lie in its own hands.”

The new Band Aid mix blends vocals from three previous editions of the song (1984, 2004, and 2014), featuring artists like Harry Styles, George Michael, Bono, and Sheeran. It is backed by a house band including Sir Paul McCartney, Sting, Phil Collins, and Damon Albarn.

Since its original release in 1984, Do They Know It’s Christmas? has raised millions for charitable causes. The 1984 and 2004 versions focused on famine relief, while the 2014 edition raised funds for the Ebola crisis in West Africa.

Despite the charitable intentions, Sheeran’s statement sheds light on the ongoing debate about Band Aid’s portrayal of Africa, raising questions about how the narrative surrounding these initiatives impacts the very communities they aim to support.