The Suffolk singer, 33, maintains he would have “respectfully” declined to appear in the new version of the charity song, and referenced another post criticising foreign aid in Africa. He had appeared in Band Aid 30 alongside One Direction, Sam Smith and Chris Martin from Coldplay. In an Instagram story, Sheeran wrote: “My approval wasn’t sought on this new Band Aid 40 release and had I had the choice I would have respectfully declined the use of my vocals.
“A decade on and my understanding of the narrative associated with this has changed, eloquently explained by @fuseodg. This is just my personal stance, I’m hoping it’s a forward-looking one. Love to all x.
” The latest track blends voices from three previous editions of the song, Band Aid (1984), Band Aid 20 (2004) and Band Aid 30 (2014), including Harry Styles, George Michael, U2’s Bono and Martin. Sheeran referenced a post by Ghanaian-English singer and rapper Fuse ODG, who worked with him on the track Boa Me. Fuse ODG said that a decade earlier he “refused” to be part of the 30th Band Aid song as he feels that while the charity helps get “sympathy and donations, they perpetuate damaging stereotypes that stifle Africa’s economic growth, tourism, and investment”.
He added: “By showcasing dehumanising imagery, these initiatives fuel pity rather than partnership, discouraging meaningful engagement. “My mission has been to reclaim the narrative, empowering Africans to tell their own stories, re.