We have a collection of 2 arrangements for Band Aid - Do They Know It's Christmas?
"Do They Know It's Christmas?" is a famous charity single released in 1984 by the supergroup Band Aid. The song was written by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, and it was recorded to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Inspiration: The idea for the song came to Bob Geldof after he saw a BBC documentary about the famine in Ethiopia. He was deeply moved by the images of suffering, and this inspired him to organize the recording.
Recorded in Just One Day: The recording of "Do They Know It's Christmas?" took place at Sarm West Studios in London on November 25, 1984. The entire song, including vocals, was recorded in just one day.
All-Star Lineup: Band Aid featured some of the biggest British and Irish musical talents of the time, including Bono, Sting, George Michael, Boy George, Phil Collins, and members of bands like Duran Duran, U2, and Queen. It was a true "supergroup" effort.
First of Its Kind: "Do They Know It's Christmas?" was one of the first charity singles of its kind, and it paved the way for other charity collaborations like "We Are the World" in the USA. It set a precedent for musicians coming together to address humanitarian crises.
Huge Success: The song was an enormous success, reaching No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart and becoming the fastest-selling single in British history at the time. It went on to sell millions of copies worldwide.
Continuing Impact: Band Aid released subsequent versions of the song in 1989 and 2004, with updated lyrics and new artists. Each version aimed to address different humanitarian crises, including famine and disease in Africa.
Funding Lifesaving Aid: The funds raised by "Do They Know It's Christmas?" were donated to the Band Aid Trust, which distributed the money to various humanitarian organizations to provide food, medicine, and other essential aid to those affected by the Ethiopian famine.
Controversy: The song's lyrics and overall message have faced some criticism over the years for perpetuating stereotypes about Africa. Critics argue that the song simplifies complex issues and may not fully respect the cultural diversity and knowledge of African nations.
Legacy: Despite the controversy, "Do They Know It's Christmas?" remains a significant part of pop culture and is often played during the holiday season. It continues to serve as a reminder of the power of music to bring attention to important global issues.
Ongoing Philanthropy: The Band Aid Trust has continued its charitable efforts beyond the initial release of the song, funding various projects to alleviate poverty and improve healthcare in Africa.
While "Do They Know It's Christmas?" has its critics, it undoubtedly played a crucial role in raising awareness and funds for the Ethiopian famine relief efforts in the mid-1980s, and it remains an iconic moment in the history of charity singles.