Band Aid '84_ The Star-Studded Lineup

Band Aid '84: The Star-Studded Lineup

The 1984 Band Aid charity single ”Do They Know It's Christmas?” brought together an impressive array of British and Irish music stars. This supergroup, organized by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, created a philanthropic phenomenon that would influence celebrity-driven charity efforts for decades to come. Here's a comprehensive look at the Band Aid '84 lineup:

Lead Vocalists:

Paul Young

Boy George (Culture Club)

George Michael (Wham!)

Simon Le Bon (Duran Duran)

Bono (U2)

Chorus:

6. Bob Geldof (Boomtown Rats)

7. Midge Ure (Ultravox)

8. Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet)

9. Glenn Gregory (Heaven 17)

10. Sting (The Police)

11. Phil Collins (Genesis)

12. Paul Weller (The Style Council)

13. Francis Rossi (Status Quo)

14. Rick Parfitt (Status Quo)

15. Marilyn

16. Keren Woodward (Bananarama)

17. Sarah Dallin (Bananarama)

18. Siobhan Fahey (Bananarama)

19. Jody Watley

20. Martin Kemp (Spandau Ballet)

21. John Keeble (Spandau Ballet)

22. Gary Kemp (Spandau Ballet)

23. John Taylor (Duran Duran)

24. Roger Taylor (Duran Duran)

25. Andy Taylor (Duran Duran)

Additional Contributors:

26. Paul McCartney (recorded separately)

27. David Bowie (recorded separately)

28. Holly Johnson (Frankie Goes to Hollywood)

29. Stuart Adamson (Big Country)

30. Bruce Watson (Big Country)

31. Mark King (Level 42)

Production Team:

32. Trevor Horn (producer)

33. Midge Ure (producer)

34. Adam Clayton (U2, bass)

This incredible gathering of talent came together on November 25, 1984, at Sarm West Studios in London for a marathon 24-hour recording session. The diversity of artists represented a wide spectrum of British pop and rock music of the era, from new wave to synth-pop to traditional rock.

The song was written primarily by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, with some input from other artists during the recording process. Its poignant lyrics contrasted the comfort of Christmas in the Western world with the harsh realities of famine in Africa, particularly Ethiopia.

Released on December 3, 1984, ”Do They Know It's Christmas?” became an instant hit, topping the UK Singles Chart for five weeks and becoming that year's Christmas number one. More importantly, it raised significant funds and awareness for famine relief in Ethiopia.

The success of Band Aid '84 inspired similar initiatives worldwide, including USA for Africa's ”We Are the World” and the massive Live Aid concert in 1985. It also set a precedent for celebrity-driven charity efforts that continues to this day.

While the Band Aid project has faced criticism over the years for its approach to addressing complex issues, its impact on popular culture and charitable giving is undeniable. The coming together of these diverse artists for a common cause remains a powerful example of music's potential to inspire social change.