Band Aid Announces Anniversary Mix of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”

The iconic charity single “Do They Know It's Christmas?” by Band Aid is being reimagined once again for its 40th anniversary. This new rendition, titled “Do They Know It’s Christmas? 2024 Ultimate Mix,” is set to release on November 25. It features a confluence of decades of musical talent, combining voices from previous iterations in 1984, 2004, and 2014. This fresh take not only rekindles the nostalgia but also embraces modern elements with artists like Harry Styles, Ed Sheeran, and Sam Smith contributing to the new mix.

The project is spearheaded by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, who originally organized the first Band Aid recording in response to a devastating famine in Ethiopia. Their efforts through the Band Aid Charitable Trust have raised over £140 million ($178 million) over the years for poverty and health projects in Africa. The original song, released in 1984, was a massive success, quickly becoming the UK’s fastest-selling single at the time, a record it held until the release of Elton John's “Candle in the Wind” in 1997. This version furthers the tradition of revisiting “Do They Know It's Christmas?”, each version garnering attention and maximizing fundraising efforts.

Trevor Horn, known for his expertise in music production, helms this anniversary mix. He has skillfully combined the voices from different generations into one cohesive track. Artists like George Michael, Boy George, and Sting from the original version join contemporary stars like Ed Sheeran and Harry Styles, creating an all-star ensemble that transcends generations. Bono from U2, who has been part of multiple versions of the song, makes three appearances in this mix, underscoring a commitment that spans nearly four decades.

The accompanying music video, crafted by Oliver Murray, who also directed The Beatles' “Now and Then,” incorporates archival footage and newly captured scenes, binding the past and present visually just as the music does aurally. Complementing the song's release will be a compilation CD and 12-inch vinyl, with cover art designed by Sir Peter Blake, who also did the original 1984 artwork, further cementing the historic ties to the past.

Despite its charitable mission, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” has faced criticism for its lyrics and representation of Africa. Critics, including some of the artists involved, have labeled it as patronizing, citing its portrayal of Africa as a monolithic entity in need of saving. The lyrical adjustments in successive versions aim to address these criticisms, most notably the infamous line originally sung by Bono, which was rephrased to offer a more sensitively evocative sentiment in light of modern perspectives on aid and global equality.

Sir Bob Geldof commented that the song still stands as a rebuke against the greed-is-good ethos of the 1980s, emphasizing the timeless need for compassion and action beyond personal gain. This message underscores the broader mission of Band Aid, which has been instrumental in raising both awareness and substantial funds for humanitarian causes.

In addition to the musical release, the BBC is putting together a documentary, “The Making of Do They Know It’s Christmas?” which will delve into the song's storied history and its profound impact over the years. Scheduled to air at the end of November 2024, this feature promises to offer insights into the collaboration and chaos behind one of music’s most recognizable charity efforts.