A heartfelt anthem uniting iconic voices to spark hope and change, born from a global crisis

“Do They Know It’s Christmas?” is a charity single released in December 1984 by Band Aid, a supergroup formed by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure. The song was created to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia, inspired by a BBC news report highlighting the crisis.

The recording session took place on November 25, 1984, at Sarm West Studios in London. Notable artists such as Bono, George Michael, Sting, and Boy George participated, contributing to the song’s immediate popularity.

Upon its release, the single became the fastest-selling in UK history at that time, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and maintaining that position for five weeks. It sold over a million copies in the first week and eventually raised £8 million for famine relief efforts.

The song’s success inspired similar charity initiatives, including the American single “We Are the World” by USA for Africa and the Live Aid concerts in 1985, further amplifying global humanitarian efforts.

Over the years, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” has been re-recorded multiple times to address various crises. In 1989, Band Aid II released a new version, followed by Band Aid 20 in 2004, and Band Aid 30 in 2014, each featuring contemporary artists to engage new audiences.

In 2024, to commemorate the 40th anniversary, a new mix titled “Band Aid 40” was released, combining vocals from previous versions. This release sparked discussions about the song’s relevance and the portrayal of Africa in its lyrics.

Critics have pointed out that the song’s lyrics may perpetuate stereotypes about Africa, depicting it as a monolithic, poverty-stricken continent. Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, expressed concerns that such portrayals undermine the nation’s progress and rich cultural heritage.

Despite these criticisms, the song’s impact on fundraising and raising awareness for humanitarian crises is undeniable. Bob Geldof has defended the song, emphasizing its role in saving lives and providing tangible aid to those in need.

The legacy of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” is complex, balancing its significant contributions to charity with ongoing debates about its lyrical content and cultural implications. As it reaches its 40th anniversary, the song continues to evoke discussions on the ethics of charity singles and the representation of global issues in popular media.