Band Aid - Do They Know It's Christmas?
"Do They Know It's Christmas?" is a charity single released in 1984 by the supergroup Band Aid. It was written by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, and its primary purpose was to raise awareness and funds for the famine in Ethiopia, which was devastating the country at the time. The song was recorded by a collective of well-known British and Irish musicians, including members of bands such as U2, Wham!, Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, and Culture Club, among others.
The song's lyrics focus on the plight of those suffering from famine in Africa and contrast it with the holiday season in the Western world, asking whether the people affected even know it's Christmas. The chorus, "Do they know it's Christmas time at all?" became an iconic line, representing both the charity's cause and the hope of solidarity in the face of global suffering.
"Do They Know It's Christmas?" was an enormous commercial success. It topped the UK Singles Chart for several weeks and raised millions for famine relief through the proceeds from the song. It also inspired other charitable efforts, including the American counterpart, "We Are the World," recorded by USA for Africa.
Over the years, the song has been re-recorded several times, including in 1989, 2004, and 2014, with each version involving different artists to address ongoing global issues, but the 1984 original remains the most famous.
Band Aid - Do they Know it's Christmas Lyrics
It's Christmas time, and there's no need to be afraid
At Christmas time, we let in light and banish shade
And in our world of plenty
We can spread a smile of joy
Throw your arms around the world
At Christmas time
But say a prayer and pray for the other ones
At Christmas time, it's hard but while you're having fun
There's a world outside your window
And it's a world of dread and fear
Where a kiss of love can kill you
And there's death in every tear
And the Christmas bells that ring there are the clanging chimes of doom
Well tonight we're reaching out and touching you
Bring peace and joy this Christmas to West Africa
A song of hope they'll have is being alive
Why is comfort deadly fear
Why is to touch to be scared
How can they know it's Christmas time at all
Here's to you
Raise a glass to everyone
Here's to them
And all their years to come
Can they know it's Christmas time at all
Feed the world, let them know it's Christmas time again
Feed the world, let them know it's Christmas time again
Heal the world, let them know it's Christmas time again
Feed the world, let them know it's Christmas time again
Heal the world, let them know it's Christmas time again
Heal the world, let them know it's Christmas time again
Feed the world, let them know it's Christmas time again
Heal the world, let them know it's Christmas time again
Heal the world