The original “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid, released in December 1984, is one of the most famous charity singles in history. Written by Bob Geldof (of The Boomtown Rats) and Midge Ure (of Ultravox), the song was created to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. Recorded by a supergroup of British and Irish artists, it became a cultural milestone, galvanizing global awareness of the Ethiopian famine and inspiring subsequent charity efforts like USA for Africa’s “We Are the World” and the Live Aid concerts.
The idea for “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” was sparked by a BBC documentary that highlighted the devastating famine in Ethiopia, where millions were suffering from starvation. Deeply moved by the footage, Bob Geldof decided to use his influence in the music industry to create a charity single. Teaming up with Midge Ure, the duo quickly wrote the song, drawing on the Christmas season to appeal to listeners’ emotions and generosity. The project came together with remarkable speed. Geldof contacted some of the biggest names in British and Irish music, securing their participation for a one-day recording session at SARM West Studios in London on November 25, 1984.
The lyrics of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” highlight the disparity between the Western world and famine-stricken Ethiopia, urging listeners to recognize their privilege and contribute to the cause. The song is both a call to action and a reflection on the stark realities of the famine. While the lyrics were well-intentioned, they have been criticized over the years for portraying a simplistic and somewhat patronizing view of Africa, overlooking the continent’s diversity and cultural richness. Despite these critiques, the song’s central message of compassion and the need for global solidarity resonated with millions, inspiring unprecedented levels of charitable giving.
The track is driven by a straightforward, anthemic melody that builds on emotional crescendos, making it an effective vehicle for its message. Featuring prominent 1980s production elements, such as synthesizers and reverb-heavy drums, the song captured the sound of the era while allowing the unique voices of its many contributors to shine. Memorable vocal moments include Paul Young’s opening line, Bono’s impassioned delivery of “Tonight, thank God it’s them instead of you,” and the collective chorus, which embodies the communal spirit of the project.
Released on November 29, 1984, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” was an instant success. It became the fastest-selling single in UK history at the time, reaching #1 on the UK Singles Chart and staying there for five weeks. It sold over a million copies in its first week and ultimately raised millions of pounds for famine relief. The song also charted internationally, reaching the Top 10 in numerous countries and becoming a global phenomenon. Its success demonstrated the power of music to unite people for a cause, inspiring artists and audiences alike.
The success of “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” extended far beyond the charts. The single raised over £8 million (approximately $24 million today) for famine relief in Ethiopia. The song’s success led directly to the organization of Live Aid in 1985, a dual-venue concert that raised even more funds and awareness for famine relief.
Other versions of the song was released in 1989 by Band Aid II, 2004 (Band Aid 20), and 2014 (Band Aid 30).
Band Aid members
(in alphabetical order)
Vocalists:
Robert “Kool” Bell (Kool & the Gang)
Bono (U2)
Pete Briquette (The Boomtown Rats)
Adam Clayton (U2)
Phil Collins (Genesis and solo artist)
Chris Cross (Ultravox)
Simon Crowe (The Boomtown Rats)
Sara Dallin (Bananarama)
Siobhan Fahey (Bananarama)
Johnny Fingers (The Boomtown Rats)
Bob Geldof (The Boomtown Rats)
Boy George (Culture Club)
Glenn Gregory (Heaven 17)
Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet)
John Keeble (Spandau Ballet)
Gary Kemp (Spandau Ballet)
Martin Kemp (Spandau Ballet)
Simon Le Bon (Duran Duran)
Marilyn
George Michael (Wham!)
Jon Moss (Culture Club)
Steve Norman (Spandau Ballet)
Rick Parfitt (Status Quo)
Nick Rhodes (Duran Duran)
Francis Rossi (Status Quo)
Sting (The Police)
Andy Taylor (Duran Duran)
James “J.T.” Taylor (Kool & the Gang)
John Taylor (Duran Duran)
Roger Taylor (Duran Duran)
Dennis Thomas (Kool & the Gang)
Midge Ure (Ultravox)
Martyn Ware (Heaven 17)
Jody Watley
Paul Weller (The Style Council)
Keren Woodward (Bananarama)
Paul Young
Additional spoken messages on B-side
Stuart Adamson, Mark Brzezicki, Tony Butler, Bruce Watson (Big Country)
David Bowie
Holly Johnson (Frankie Goes to Hollywood)
Paul McCartney
Musicians
Phil Collins – drums
John Taylor – bass
Midge Ure – keyboards and programming