Grammy-winning artist Fuse ODG has publicly called for the BBC to halt the release of its upcoming documentary celebrating the 40th anniversary of Band Aid. He cities the project’s damaging impact on Africa’s economic and cultural identity. His remarks have sparked a broader conversation, with pop icon Ed Sheeran also voicing concerns about the project.
In an Instagram post, the British-Ghanaian rapper and activist explained why he has consistently refused to participate in Band Aid initiatives, including the Band Aid 30 recording a decade ago.
“I refused to participate in Band Aid because I recognized the harm initiatives like it inflict on Africa,” Fuse ODG shared. “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, pride, and identity.”
The rapper argued that such charity efforts fuel “pity rather than partnership” and urged a shift in focus toward empowering Africans to reclaim their narrative. “We need to redefine our identity and position Africa as a thriving hub for investment and tourism,” he said.
Reacting to Fuse ODG’s post, Ed Sheeran revealed his discomfort with the re-use of his vocals in the new Band Aid 40 recording. The reimagined version of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” features a blend of Sheeran’s 2014 Band Aid 30 vocals with Sting’s from the original 1984 track.
“My approval wasn’t sought on this new Band Aid 40 release,” Sheeran wrote on Instagram. “Had I had the choice, I would have respectfully declined the use of my vocals.”
The British pop star acknowledged that his understanding of the narrative surrounding Band Aid has evolved over the years, referencing Fuse ODG’s critique as a pivotal influence. “A decade on, my understanding of the narrative associated with this has changed, eloquently explained by @fuseodg,” Sheeran noted. “This is just my personal stance, I’m hoping it’s a forward-looking one.”
The Band Aid initiative, initially launched in 1984 by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, aimed to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. While celebrated for its charitable impact, the project has faced criticism for perpetuating reductive and harmful portrayals of Africa as a monolithic continent in perpetual crisis.
Fuse ODG’s critique comes amid a growing movement of African artists and activists demanding more nuanced, empowering portrayals of the continent. “Africa has stories of innovation, resilience, and opportunity that the world needs to see,” he emphasized.
The BBC and the Band Aid are yet to respond to Fuse ODG’s call to stop the documentary, but the renewed criticism from prominent voices like Fuse ODG and Ed Sheeran may pressure the organization to reconsider its approach.
