Bob Geldof's Band Aid plea to Ed Sheeran: Boomtown Rats singer says he's rung megastar to ask for a...

Bob Geldof has made it known that he's tried to contact Ed Sheeran regarding some negative comments about the latest Band Aid charity track, but he's still awaiting a conversation.

The co-writer of "Do They Know It's Christmas?" shared that he reached out to Ed Sheeran, the pop star known for "Shape of You," who has voiced his opposition to a re-recording for the song's 40th anniversary.

Last week, Sheeran, who is 33 years old, stated that he would have liked it if his singing parts from a 2014 recording had not been included in the new version that came out this week.

Geldof has been standing up for the song in response to claims that it encourages 'sympathy instead of collaboration' and reinforces negative stereotypes about Africa.

Other musicians are now speaking out against Sheeran in the growing controversy, with Tony Hadley from Spandau Ballet telling him to "be quiet." However, Geldof mentioned today that he prefers a friendlier "discussion" with the younger artist.

Trevor Horn, who produced the new 40th anniversary edition and previously did the same for the original single in 1984, has reacted to Sheeran's comments on Instagram from last week.

A severe famine in Ethiopia motivated Geldof to create Band Aid in 1984. He collaborated with Midge Ure, the lead singer of Ultravox, to write the song "Do They Know It's Christmas?" and later coordinated the Live Aid concerts that took place in July 1985 to raise funds.

Last week, Sheeran expressed his dissatisfaction with the way his vocals are being featured in the upcoming re-recording, which is set to be officially released this Friday.

Today, Bob Geldof revealed that he reached out to Ed Sheeran to discuss the pop star's recent comments on Instagram regarding the Band Aid song "Do They Know It's Christmas?"

Ed Sheeran, the pop superstar seen on the right, has voiced his disapproval of a recent re-release of a single. This track was originally recorded in 2014 and co-written by Sir Bob Geldof, who is pictured on the left. The two were photographed arriving at the studio back in November 2014 to collaborate on the Band Aid 30 version of the song.

He mentioned that he would have politely turned down any request to reuse his work from the 30th anniversary production in 2014, unlike some other critics such as Lily Allen and Damon Albarn who have participated in similar discussions in the past.

Sheeran shared that his worries about the song were influenced by comments from his friend Fuse ODG, a rapper of Ghanaian descent who was born in London.

Fuse ODG, whose real name is Nana Richard Abiona, spoke out last week after he released a response titled "We Know It's Christmas," calling on the BBC not to support the song.

At 33 years old, Sheeran first appeared on the 2014 version of this song, joining artists such as Sting and Harry Styles, with the goal of raising funds for the Ebola relief initiatives.

Last Sunday, Sheeran shared on his Instagram stories: "I wasn't asked for my permission regarding the new Band Aid 40 release, and if I had the option, I would have politely chosen to opt out of having my voice included."

After ten years, my perspective on the story tied to this has evolved, beautifully articulated by @fuseodg. This is simply my own viewpoint, and I hope it's a positive one. Sending love to everyone x.

Fuse ODG turned down an invitation to join the 2014 rendition of Do They Know It's Christmas?, a project that included Ed Sheeran.

Last week, the rapper shared on his Facebook: "Exactly ten years ago, I turned down Bob Geldof's Band Aid - Do They Know It's Christmas initiative because I believe it undermines the dignity of Africans and harms our sense of pride and identity under the guise of 'charity'."

Geldof has been standing up for the song he worked on with Midge Ure, addressing the backlash that suggests it encourages a sense of pity instead of fostering collaboration, and that it perpetuates negative stereotypes about Africa.

The initial recording of "Do They Know It's Christmas?" from 1984 included prominent artists such as Paul Young, Bono, Sting, George Michael, Bananarama, and Spandau Ballet.

Sheeran expressed his emotions openly in a message he shared with his followers on Instagram.

Today, Geldof shared with presenter Lorraine Kelly on her ITV show that he welcomed the opportunity to discuss important issues with Sheeran. He also emphasized the significant role the single plays in raising funds for those affected by humanitarian crises who are still facing hunger.

When the host inquired if he found the criticism of Band Aid annoying, Geldof firmly replied, "No, not at all."

It's important to recognize that perspectives have evolved over time. Feelings, sensitivities, and viewpoints shift over a span of 40 years, and that's completely natural; you can't remain unchanged.

It’s important to explore various approaches to address these problems and communicate about them. What we’re recognizing here is that none of these discussions would have gained traction if Band Aid hadn’t been released.

Ed shares, "This is how I'm feeling at the moment." I've reached out to him—he's a wonderful person, very smart, and a significant artist. We'll have a conversation where we can either see eye to eye or have different opinions, but we always discuss it.

We need to engage in the discussion, as it gives us the opportunity to express our perspectives more firmly. This is my stance on the matter.

Geldof encouraged everyone to buy the latest release and support Band Aid's efforts in delivering essential food and aid to those in need. He said, "To me, it's straightforward – there’s a child in need of food, and this song connects the two. If you enjoy the song, please buy it."

This record is a small piece of rock and roll history; you should consider purchasing it for that reason alone. However, it's important to truly grasp the reality that by acquiring this record, you've placed yourself between a meal and a child in need.

Ed Sheeran (on the left) and Ghanaian-British artist Fuse ODG (on the right), shown in a still from their Boa Me video, have voiced their opinions regarding the charity single "Do They Know It's Christmas."

I promise you, the money you've invested in that track will help provide meals for those children. Tonight or tomorrow, they will go to bed feeling safer and more secure. This support can restore their dignity and sense of control, helping them get back on their feet and begin to rebuild their lives.

MailOnline has reached out to Sheeran's team for a response.

His recent statements come amidst increasing criticism of Sheeran’s comments. Hadley, who was part of the original 1984 version of "Do They Know It's Christmas?", suggested that those who are criticizing the song should refrain from speaking out.

Hadley expressed on Radio 2's The Jeremy Vine Show on Monday, "Honestly, I think they should just stay quiet. We were present for the situation. If we start thinking that way, then no one will step in to help anyone, which is just ridiculous."

I'm just wondering, should we discontinue Children In Need? Because if that's the case, then you'd think the government ought to cover all the expenses for everything.

Everyone is making an effort to help different charities, and we were genuinely contributing to the situation in Ethiopia and throughout Africa, which continues to this day.

"That's another point to consider – it's still happening, so should we just stand by and remain inactive? I’m afraid I can’t agree with that."

At the same time, Horn mentioned that after learning about Sheeran's recent opinions, he could have easily chosen not to include him in the new version.

This fresh blend incorporates recordings from 1984, 2004, and 2014, showcasing a youthful Sting performing alongside a young Ed Sheeran, a young Boy George teaming up with a young Sam Smith, and a young George Michael sharing the stage with a young Harry Styles.

The younger Bono is seen alongside an older version of himself, while Chris Martin pairs up with Guy Garvey. The Sugababes collaborate with Bananarama, Seal joins Sinead O'Connor, Rita Ora teams up with Robbie Williams, and Kool and the Gang share the stage with Underworld.

Other notable artists involved are Paul McCartney, Sting, John Taylor, Phil Collins, Roger Taylor, Paul Weller, Damon Albarn, Midge Ure, Johnny Greenwood, Gary Kemp, and Justin Hawkins.

Horn, who was also behind the original version from 1984, has expressed his views on the song, stating: "I believe it was created with good intentions. So, I don't think it's wise to view it as something condescending."

The intention behind it was to provide assistance. It's truly remarkable how much the music industry was able to accomplish in that regard. I don't believe anyone expected it to generate such a substantial amount of money.

In reaction to Sheeran's comments, he said, "I regret that Ed Sheeran isn't satisfied. If I had been aware, I would have happily chosen not to include him."

Concert promoter Harvey Goldsmith, who organized the Live Aid concert in 1985, remarked, "Absolutely. Forget him."

Goldsmith mentioned that over the last seven months, he has issued cheques totaling £3 million, which were funded by donations to the Band Aid Trust. These funds are being used to back educational and healthcare initiatives.

During his appearance on the Jeremy Vine show, he remarked, "Charities have no issues reaching out to us for funding on a daily basis, so they're not facing any difficulties."

"Do They Know It's Christmas?" was co-authored by Midge Ure (on the left) and Bob Geldof (on the right). The two are pictured here during the recording of the Band Aid 30 rendition in London in November 2014.

I'm not sure what Ed Sheeran's issue is, or who this other guy is that I don't really recognize.

Regardless, I'm not sure what his issue is, but there's a significant food crisis happening. This situation is partly due to climate change, which is causing extreme weather patterns. Some areas are experiencing severe drought with no rain at all, while others are facing heavy rainfall that the ground can't absorb.

Here's the situation, and we need to keep it in mind. If we can offer assistance, we're more than willing to do so. But if our help isn't appreciated, we're perfectly fine exploring other options.

However, Ure, one of the song's co-writers, seemed more forgiving, stating, “It’s a bit regrettable that we didn’t discuss it with Ed first.”

"He's a great person, and ideally, they should have asked for his permission. However, when artists agree to record any of the existing Band Aid tracks, they are essentially granting their approval."

In the meantime, Geldof felt a wave of emotions during his appearance as a guest on Zoe Ball's Radio 2 breakfast show on Monday. This special broadcast featured the first public airing of the 2024 Ultimate Mix of "Do They Know It's Christmas?", celebrating 40 years since the song was first released.

With a quivering voice, he expressed to the host, "I believe it's a masterpiece. The voices are just remarkable, aren't they?"

"I truly believe it's among the finest artwork ever created for a rock and roll album. Honestly."

Ball referred to the track as 'an exceptional piece of work', stating: 'We've both shed some tears, and it's a reminder of all the people who were part of this journey but may no longer be with us. During this season, we especially remember them.'

Geldof recently addressed the backlash against "Do They Know It's Christmas?" during an interview with the Sunday Times over the weekend.

He stated, "This catchy pop song has helped millions survive. Why would Band Aid stop providing meals for thousands of children who rely on us for food?"

Currently, there are 600 million people who are hungry globally, with 300 million of them living in Africa. As much as we would like to change this reality, it remains unchanged. However, we can offer assistance to some of those in need, and this is the commitment we will uphold going forward.