Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton’s Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video – as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama

Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama

As someone who has spent a significant part of my life immersed in the vibrant and diverse world of music, I find myself deeply moved by the recent developments surrounding the iconic charity single, Band Aid. Having grown up with the powerful impact of such songs, it’s heartening to see artists like Ed Sheeran and Fuse ODG taking a stand and engaging in thoughtful discussions about the representation and perception of Africa in these contexts.


In a recent sighting, Ed Sheeran was captured striking a pose alongside Bridgerton actress Claudia Jessie. He posted backstage photos from the filming of his latest holiday single, “Under The Tree,” on social media.

33-year-old singer shared behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram Tuesday, offering fans a sneak peek into the production of their upcoming video, which featured the actor, 35, and director Richard Curtis, 68, along with some playful antics.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I must share some exciting news: My upcoming holiday anthem is set to square off against the recently released Band Aid 40 charity single. However, it’s important to note that there have been concerns raised about this collaboration, as some claim that my vocals were utilized without my explicit consent.

Ed’s original Christmas song is part of the soundtrack for upcoming Christmas film, That Christmas, which is co-written by Love Actually creator Richard.

It appeared that the star was clearly having fun during filming, playing around with Claudia in a picture where they were both embracing a massive Christmas tree.

Additionally, Ed posted a sneak peek video showing him buying Christmas supplies, such as a sack of leeks, while filming a part of the video production.

Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama

Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama

A new video showed the artist performing to a moving song, a collaboration between him and his friend, Johnny McDaid from Snow Patrol, prompting fans to quickly fill the comment section with their reactions.

Several noted that the song, which was released earlier on Tuesday, left them in tears.

They penned: ‘Someone was cutting onions very early this morning. sounds beautiful, love that you got to work with your brother.’

‘Aaaw, loveliest! Another song I can´t listen to without shedding a tear…’

Wow, it’s been exquisitely crafted! It moved both Mum and me to tears because it resonated deeply with us. I’m eagerly anticipating watching the video as soon as possible!

The tune is slated to play in the forthcoming Christmas movie, titled “That Christmas,” which premieres on December 4th, featuring actors like Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker, Lolly Adefope, Bill Nighy, Rhys Darby, Alex Macqueen, Katherine Parkinson, India Brown, and Sindhu Vee.

Later on, Ed’s earlier hint at a celebratory revelation this month was followed by them – Ed, Claudia, and Richard – making an unanticipated joint post on their social media platforms.

On Friday, the Grammy-winning screenwriter from Britain and the star of Bridgerton sat down together for a chat about their favorite holiday films.

Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama
Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama
Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama
Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama
Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama

On Instagram, Ed posted a video where Claudia disclosed that she prefers watching “A Muppet’s Christmas Carol” over “Love Actually” during the holiday season, surprising the screenwriter behind “Love Actually”.

Ed hinted at an exciting revelation from himself, Richard Curtis, and Claudia Jessie in the upcoming video he posted, which he playfully tagged: “Something fun coming your way next week – me, Richard Curtis, and Claudia Jessie!

The clip begins as Claudia is asked her favourite Christmas movie and replies: ‘A Muppet’s Christmas Carol’.

At this moment, Richard makes an appearance and exclaims, “What on earth? A Muppet’s version of A Christmas Carol?

Ed Sheeran, the musician behind “Shape Of You,” enters the frame, remarking: ‘Every year before I watch Love Actually, I like to catch A Muppets Christmas Carol.’

Richard nods affirmatively,” he responds, as the scene shifts to Claudia who admits, “I momentarily lost my bearings.

Ed’s Christmas offering comes after Ed claimed he wasn’t asked permission from Band Aid 40 organisers to use his vocals on the a new version of the charity single Do They Know It’s Christmas?

Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama
Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama

Initially, that 2014 track (led by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure) had a well-known musician as part of its lineup, joining artists such as Sting and Harry Styles. This collaboration was formed in an effort to collect funds for the Ebola crisis relief efforts.

Despite the approaching release of a special 2024 remix of the song for its 40th anniversary, Ed shared that he would have refused to lend his voice to the track if given the opportunity.

Posting on Instagram Stories, the artist behind Shape Of You, shared a comment from Ghanaian-British musician Fuse ODG. This vocal critic of the charity single argues that it unfairly represents Africans, stripping them of their dignity and self-respect under the guise of ‘charity’.

In a different phrasing, here’s what Ed wrote: “I wasn’t consulted about the latest Band Aid 40 release, and if given the option, I would politely refuse to contribute my vocals.

10 years later, my perspective on this story has evolved, as clearly articulated by @fuseodg. This is simply my individual viewpoint, and I’m optimistically looking towards the future with it. Sending love to all x.

Ed’s statements align with rapper Fuse ODG’s firm position regarding the charity single, led by Bob Geldof, that emerged a decade following his decision not to participate in the Band Aid 30 track.

In a recent statement, Fuse ODG, the artist known for collaborating with Ed on the popular track “Boa Me,” asserted that the song perpetuates harmful stereotypes.

Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama
Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama
Ed Sheeran larks around with Bridgerton's Claudia Jessie in snaps from his new Christmas music video - as he drops festive song to rival Band Aid 40 amid permission drama

The musician, behind the single “We Know It’s Christmas,” wrote: “A decade ago, I chose not to take part in Band Aid projects due to the negative impact they often have on Africa.

Although these might evoke empathy and financial support, they reinforce harmful stereotypes that hinder Africa’s economic advancement, tourism, and foreign investment. Over time, this results in immense financial losses amounting to trillions and damages the continent’s self-worth, honor, and unique identity.

Displaying degrading visuals seems to elicit sympathy more than collaboration, which may hinder genuine interaction.

The artist expressed his intention to take up the challenge of restoring the storytelling power, encouraging Africans to express themselves, reshape their self-image, and portray Africa as a flourishing destination for business opportunities and travel.

Speaking passionately, I exclaim: “Today, it’s evident that the African diaspora is spearheading the greatest influx of resources returning to our beloved continent. This isn’t about Band Aid or external aid; it’s a testament that Africa holds the key to its own solutions and progress.

TopMob contacted Band Aid representatives for comment at the time.

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2024-11-26 15:19

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