To mark the 40th anniversary of the iconic charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”, a special edition titled the 2024 Ultimate Mix will be released on November 25. This celebratory version will blend the voices of stars across the song’s four iterations — from the original 1984 release to its subsequent recordings in 1989, 2004, and 2014. The new music video, directed by Oliver Murray, promises fresh visuals to accompany the track, with a trailer already generating excitement among fans.
Originally composed by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure to raise awareness and funds for famine relief in Ethiopia, the song quickly became a holiday classic and one of the best-selling singles in U.K. history. Proceeds from the Band Aid Charitable Trust have supported various initiatives tackling poverty in Africa, raising over £140 million ($178 million) since the song’s inception.
The 2024 Ultimate Mix features iconic vocal takes, including Sting, Boy George, and George Michael from 1984’s recording, Bananarama from the 1989 version, Sugababes, Chris Martin, and Robbie Williams from 2004, and Harry Styles, Ed Sheeran, and Sam Smith from 2014. U2’s Bono, a recurring vocalist across versions, will appear three times in this anniversary mix. Instrumental contributions from legends like Paul McCartney, Phil Collins, and Thom Yorke, woven together by producer Trevor Horn, add a powerful layer of nostalgia and musicianship to the updated track.
Upon its original release in 1984, Do They Know It’s Christmas? became the fastest-selling single in U.K. history, holding the record until Elton John’s “Candle in the Wind” in 1997. It topped the U.K. Official Singles Chart each time it was re-released and reached No. 13 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
The song's success also led to the massive 1985 Live Aid concerts, which brought global attention to African famine relief efforts through simultaneous shows in London and Philadelphia. However, the portrayal of Africa in the song and related media has faced criticism over the years. Critics like Moky Makura of Africa No Filter have noted that the portrayal has often reinforced stereotypes and contributed to a “patronizing” view of the continent, calling attention to the impact of such messaging on Western perceptions of Africa.
With its mix of legacy voices and modern production, the 2024 Ultimate Mix aims to bring the message of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” to a new generation while continuing the song’s charitable mission. Fans can look forward to its release and the accompanying video as the latest chapter in Band Aid’s history unfolds.
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