Fuse ODG hits back at Band Aid single with ‘We Know It’s Christmas’

nme.com:

Good Morning Britain in which he said “African problems need to be solved by Africans”.In the video’s description, the singer shared: “‘We Know It’s Christmas’ serves as a direct rebuttal to the 1984 Band Aid single, ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ which, according to Fuse, perpetuates outdated and negative stereotypes about Africa, portraying the continent solely as a place of poverty and famine.“The release date also marks the 10th anniversary of the moment Fuse ODG made global headlines by turning down an invitation to join the 2014 revamp of the Band Aid project led by Sir Bob Geldof.

The musician’s decision ignited widespread debate, but Fuse stood firm, asserting that African voices should be at the forefront of telling their own stories.”“It’s a reflection of where we’ve come from and where we’re going,” Fuse added. “Ten years ago, I made a stand because I believed it was time for Africans to tell their own stories and to redefine the narrative.

This song is a celebration of that shift. We’re no longer waiting for charity; we’re building our own futures. This is about empowerment, pride, and showing the world that Africa’s story is far more than poverty and aid.”Fuse’s track comes after Ed Sheeran spoke out about his voice being used for the ‘2024 Ultimate Mix’ version of ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ without being asked for permission.The new mix of the song, produced by Trevor Horn, brings together all of the voices from three versions of the track, recorded in 1984, 2004 and 2014. “My approval wasn’t sought on this new Band Aid 40 release.

Had I had the choice I would have respectfully declined the use of my vocals,” Sheeran wrote on Instagram Stories.“A decade on and my understanding of the narrative.