British Ghanaian singer Fuse ODG, who recently criticised foreign aid in Africa, has released a music video entitled “We Know It’s Christmas”, in a rebuttal to the 40th anniversary remake of Band Aid's Do They Know It's Christmas?
The singer/rapper said his latest track is "not just a song" but "a statement".
The video begins with the Grammy-winning star declaring live on ITV's Good Morning Britain programme that "African problems need to be solved by Africans".
It follows Ed Sheeran saying last month that Band Aid had not asked for permission to re-use his vocals from a 30th anniversary version of their track.
He then credited Fuse ODG, who had declined the offer to take part in the project, for updating his view of the situation.
Sheeran says a decade on and his understanding of the narrative associated with this has changed.
Fuse ODG says he refused to participate in Band Aid because he recognised the harm initiatives like it inflict on Africa.
He says while they may generate sympathy and donations, they perpetuate damaging stereotypes that stifle Africa's economic growth, tourism, and investment, ultimately costing the continent trillions and destroying its dignity, pride and identity.
Now his own latest music video features beautiful waterfalls and bustling cities, as well as making nods to famous black leaders including former Ghana president Kwame Nkrumah. Speaking about We Know It's Christmas (Band Aid Reply), the songwriter said it was intended as a reflection of where they have come from and where they are going.
Fuse ODG says ten years ago, he made a stand because he believed it was time for Africans to tell their own stories and to redefine the narrative.
He says this song is a celebration of that shift, that they are no longer waiting for charity; they are building their own futures.
The artist says this is about empowerment, pride, and showing the world that Africa’s story is far more than poverty and aid.
[Source: BBC]
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