Ed Sheeran calls out Band Aid charity for reusing his vocals without consent

British singer Ed Sheeran has voiced criticism of the Band Aid charity, which raises funds for Africa through its music releases.

Sharing a post that condemned the song ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ for perpetuating damaging stereotypes about Africa, Sheeran revealed that he would have refused permission for his vocals from the 2014 edition to be used in the upcoming 2024 version, which combines different versions of the single recorded over the years.

As Band Aid gears up to celebrate its 40th anniversary, the ‘Shape of You’ singer wrote in an Instagram story, “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.”

He added that a decade after being a part of the 2014 iteration, his “understanding of the narrative associated with this has changed.”

“This is just my personal stance, I’m hoping it’s a forward-looking one. Love to all.”

Along with his post, he attached a post by Ghanaian-English singer Fuse ODG who stated that he declined to participate in Band Aid ten years ago because he recognised the harm initiatives like it inflicted on Africa.

“While they may generate sympathy and donations, they perpetuate damaging stereotypes that stifle Africa’s economic growth, tourism and investment, ultimately costing the continent trillions and destroying its dignity.”

Fuse said that by showcasing dehumanising imagery, such initiatives fueled pity instead of partnership and discouraged meaningful engagement. The 2014 version of the music video opened with footage of a dead body being carried by people in hazmat suits.

“My mission has been to reclaim the narrative, empowering Africans to tell their own stories, redefine their identity and position Africa as a thriving hub for investment and tourism.”

He added that today, the African diaspora drove the largest flow of funds back into the continent, not Band Aid.

The Band Aid Charitable Trust was started by musicians Bob Geldof and Midge Ure after the 1984 famine in Ethiopia. A group of musical artists came together to perform ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’. The original sold over two million copies and raised about £8m.

According to the BBC, in its four decades, the Band Aid Charitable Trust has raised over £140m. The money has gone towards long-term development projects and emergency aid. The 2014 version, for example, raised money for the Ebola crisis.