Emeli Sandé Reveals Her Edits To Band Aid 30 Single Were Rejected, Believes 'Do They Know It's Christmas?' Should Be Replaced With A Whole New Song

The new Band Aid 30 version of "Do They Know It's Christmas?," which was spearheaded by Sir Bob Geldof, was created to raise money for the victims of the deadly Ebola virus in Africa. However, the single has also raised a wave of controversy.

While several members of the music industry have spoken out against the song, which they some claim to be dated and others deem smug, Emeli Sandé, one of the superstar artists that sang on the single, is now revealing her belief that a new song needs to be written to replace the out-of-date charity track.  

"I've been having so many discussions about this all week," tweeted Sandé on Saturday. "Here are my thoughts on the band aid single..."

The 27-year-old followed this up with a long letter expressing her feelings on the buzz around the Band Aid 30 song, which features the voices of popular musicians such as Bono, Chris Martin of Coldplay, One Direction, and Ed Sheeran. Sandé also revealed that she and Benin singer Angélique Kidjo had composed changes to the track that were rejected before the recording.

"Yes, I agree the lyric needed changing," she wrote on Twitter. "In fact I feel a whole new song is required."

"Aside from my feelings regarding the lyric, there was no doubt in my mind or heart that this project came from a place of pure and respectful intent. Sir Geldof [sic] made this clear when he addressed us all: I haven't heard a man speak with such passion and sincerity in many years," added Sandé.

The songstress, whose father is Zambian, also acknowledged that the updated version of "Do They Know It's Christmas?" was never intended to be patronizing or insensitive, although many have perceived it that way.

"I am so proud of my Zambian heritage," she said. "No offence or disrespect to the beautiful and prosperous continent was ever intended. In my eyes, this song is specifically addressing a medical crisis, which is very real and in urgent need of awareness and support."

"The response from world governments has been horribly slow and media coverage has been minimal though thousands and thousands are dying," added Sandé.

"I apologise if the lyrics of the song have caused offence. I wish the changes had been kept but that is out of my control," she explained. "The sole objective is to raise awareness and money to provide medical aid to those suffering the Ebola outbreak, which is being worsened and amplified by poverty."

"Thank you so much for your support," concluded Emeli.

So, what do you think of the new Band Aid 30 single?

Tags
Emeli Sande
Band Aid
Do They Know It's Christmas?
Bob Geldof
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