Bob Geldof and Ed Sheeran agree to disagree over Band Aid controversy

Check it out: Bob Geldof addresses Ed Sheeran's worries about Band Aid.

What Did You Overlook?

Bob Geldof mentioned that he has had a conversation with Ed Sheeran regarding his worries about Band Aid 40. He also appreciates the discussions surrounding the song since it helps keep his fundraising efforts in the spotlight.

Bob Geldof and Midge Ure have launched a new version of their charity song, "Do They Know It's Christmas," to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original from 1984. This latest edition gathers vocals from various artists who have contributed over the years. Among them is Ed Sheeran, who mentioned last week that he would decline an invitation to participate again, as his perspective on aiding Africa has evolved.

In a conversation with Lorraine, Geldof expressed his admiration for Sheeran and mentioned that they had discussed his opinions. Later, he appeared on This Morning alongside Ure to elaborate on why they weren't bothered by any controversy surrounding their work.

"Understanding The What, How, And Why"

Bob Geldof has discussed his worries regarding Band Aid with Ed Sheeran. (Getty Images)

Last week, Ed Sheeran made news after sharing a message on social media regarding the release of Band Aid 40, which includes his vocals from 2014. He mentioned that he wouldn't have opted to take part in the fundraiser again after discussing the challenges related to providing assistance to Africa with Fuse ODG.

Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, the creators of Band Aid and the driving force behind its newest rendition, have expressed that they aren’t bothered by the criticism surrounding "Do They Know It's Christmas." In fact, they see it as beneficial because it keeps the song and their fundraising initiatives in the spotlight.

On Tuesday, Geldof mentioned during an interview with ITV's Lorraine that he had reached out to Sheeran to discuss his worries. He commended the singer for being "smart," despite their differences in opinion.

Explore further: Band Aid

What makes Band Aid a topic of debate? (Yahoo, 9 min read)

In Support of Band Aid (Sort of) (City AM, 4-Minute Read)

Members of Band Aid expressed their frustration with Ed Sheeran concerning his complaint about not being asked for permission to use his vocals on their charity single. (The Standard, 6 min read)

Bob Geldof expressed to Lorraine that he was happy to see discussions taking place about Band Aid. (ITV screenshot)

During an interview, Lorraine Kelly inquired whether the negative feedback from artists like Ed Sheeran bothered him. His response was candid: "Not at all, that's the truth. A part of me thinks, really? (gesturing with his fists), but I understand that opinions evolve over time. Feelings, sensitivities, and viewpoints shift over the course of 40 years, and that's perfectly valid. You can't remain unchanged. It's essential to discover new methods for addressing these challenges and to find fresh ways to discuss them."

"None of these points would even be discussed if Band Aid hadn't been released. Ed expresses that this is his current stance. I've reached out – he's a genuinely nice person, smart, and a significant artist. We've had a conversation, and whether we agree or not isn't the main point; what's important is that we communicate and engage in the discussion. This allows us to present our perspectives even more forcefully, and that's my position on this."

Midge Ure expressed his happiness that the single continues to receive media coverage. (Redferns)

He said, "For me, it's straightforward. There's a child in need and a meal waiting for them. When you purchase this record, you're directly helping to bridge the gap between that meal and the child in need. I promise you, the money you spend on this record will go toward providing that meal for that hungry child."

Later on, Ure joined him on This Morning and shared similar opinions.

Ure expressed, "It's wonderful that everyone has their own viewpoint, and we welcome that. We're glad that people are discussing this topic. Engaging in conversation is crucial. Regardless of your stance, it's essential to consider all perspectives."

"Africa being self-sufficient—absolutely, we completely understand and support that idea. It's fantastic that people are talking about this and engaging in discussions; that's exactly what is needed. During the early days of Band Aid, our primary role was to ensure that the cameras stayed on the issues at hand. It's crucial to keep the media and the world aware of the real challenges that exist."

"Africa needs to become self-reliant, and it is beginning to do so. However, the individuals we are encountering reflect the consequences of past challenges and hardships."

Ed Sheeran's Take On Band Aid 40

Ed Sheeran has stated that he wouldn't join Band Aid if approached again. (PA Images)

In 2014, Sheeran contributed to a special 30th anniversary edition of the song, and his singing was included again in the most recent version. Last week, he shared on his Instagram Story, “I wasn't asked for my permission regarding this new Band Aid 40 release, and if given the option, I would have politely declined the use of my voice.”

Reflecting on a post from rapper Fuse ODG that challenged the concept of foreign aid in Africa, he stated, "After ten years, my perspective on this issue has evolved, as @fuseodg clearly articulates. This is simply my individual viewpoint, and I hope it offers a positive outlook for the future. Sending love to everyone x."

British-Ghanaian artist Fuse ODG shared that he declined to participate in Band Aid 30 because he believes these types of fundraising efforts reinforce negative stereotypes.

He stated: "Although these portrayals might evoke compassion and encourage financial contributions, they also reinforce harmful stereotypes that hinder Africa's economic progress, tourism, and investment. In the long run, this results in massive financial losses for the continent and undermines its dignity, pride, and identity."

You can catch Lorraine on ITV1 at 9 AM from Monday to Friday.