Surprise reason Ed Sheeran doesn’t want vocals used on new version of Band Aid’s charity single

ED Sheeran says he would have stopped his vocals being used on a new version of Band Aid’s Do They Know It’s Christmas? over fears the charity hit reinforces African stereotypes.

The Shape of You singer, 33, says he was not asked about the 40th anniversary special, which uses samples from the four earlier records in 1984, 1989, 2004 and 2014 and will be released next week.

Ed, 33, wrote online that he backed claims by Ghanaian-British singer and songwriter Fuse ODG.

He said: “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 Fuse ODG. This is just my personal stance, I’m hoping it’s a forward-looking one.”

Fuse ODG had said: “Ten years ago I refused to participate in Band Aid because I recognised the harm initiatives like it inflict on Africa.

“They perpetuate damaging  stereotypes that stifle Africa’s economic growth, tourism and investment and ultimately costing the continent trillions and destroying its dignity, pride and identity.”

Band Aid was formed by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure to raise cash to fight famine in Ethiopia.

Earlier this year, Geldof, 73, branded the white saviour complex backlash against Band Aid “the greatest load of bs ever”.

He raged: “If there was a famine in Italy and someone reacts and they’re white, are they a white saviour? Are th­e only people allowed to react to an African famine black?”

As well as Ed, the new track features Sting, Robbie Williams, One Direction and George Michael.