40 Years of "Do They Know It’s Christmas?": A Musical Legacy of Compassion and Controversy

Images via Eva Rinaldi / Flickr; Simone D. McCourtie / World Bank; Peter Dirix / Flickr

Forty years ago, a song united some of the biggest names in music to tackle one of the world’s most devastating crises. On November 25, 1984, Bob Geldof organized a historic recording session for Do They Know It’s Christmas? with a mission to raise funds for Ethiopian famine relief. Among the star-studded lineup of British and Irish artists were Bono, Sting, George Michael, Phil Collins, Duran Duran, and Boy George—though the Karma Chameleon singer nearly missed the session, flying in last-minute from New York after Geldof’s panicked call.

Released on December 7, 1984, the single became an instant phenomenon, topping the UK charts with record-breaking sales and sparking a movement. Its success inspired iconic humanitarian projects like We Are the World and Live Aid, proving the power of music to unite people for a cause.

In 2024, the song is being reintroduced with a 2024 Ultimate Mix, combining performances from its original recording with voices from its 20th and 30th-anniversary versions. Modern stars like Harry Styles, Sam Smith, and Chris Martin join the legendary vocals of Bono and Sting, creating a multi-generational celebration of its legacy.

But the song’s return hasn’t been without criticism. Ed Sheeran, who contributed to the 2014 version, recently stated he would not have allowed his vocals to be included in the 2024 mix had he been asked. Sheeran explained that his perspective on the song’s narrative has changed over the years. Specifically, critics have pointed out the song’s portrayal of Africa as overly simplistic and paternalistic, particularly lines like “And there won’t be snow in Africa this Christmastime”.

Image via Eva Rinaldi / Flickr

While the song was created with the best intentions, Sheeran’s comments echo a broader, ongoing conversation about how media—and music—represent diverse cultures and global issues. His reluctance to participate in the remix reflects a growing awareness of the importance of nuance and respect in storytelling.

Bob Geldof, however, sees these critiques as an opportunity. “As time passes, there are different opinions and new sensibilities”, he said. “He [Sheeran] has a point of view. He’s articulating that point of view.”. For Geldof, the debates surrounding the song today are a testament to its enduring cultural impact: “Rock ’n’ roll is about articulating possibility and demanding change. And that’s what they were all doing.”.

Despite the evolving dialogue, Do They Know It’s Christmas? remains a landmark moment in music history—a reminder of how artists can use their platforms to inspire action and raise awareness. Forty years later, its message of compassion and unity continues to resonate, even as the world reexamines the ways such stories are told.