Ed Sheeran Claims Band Aid Is Using His Vocals Without Permission on New Mix: ‘I Would Have Respectfully Declined’

Ed Sheeran claims Band Aid didn’t ask for his permission to use his vocals on a new mix.

Last week, the supergroup — helmed by Sir Bob Geldof and Ultravox’s Midge Ure revealed they would be dropping an “ultimate mix” of the holiday charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” for its 40th anniversary, per Billboard.

According to the publication, the new version is set to feature vocals from four of the recorded versions from 1984, 1989, 2004 and 2014, including renditions from Bono, Harry Styles (with One Direction), George Michael and more.

The “Perfect” artist, 33, who sang on the 2014 version of the track alongside Coldplay, Sam Smith and Rita Ora, has revealed that the new mix features his vocals without his permission.

On Sunday, Nov. 17, Sheeran shared his claims on Instagram Stories.

“My approval wasn’t sought on this new Band Aid 40 release,” he wrote. “Had I had the choice I would have respectfully declined the use of my vocals.”

Sheeran added: “A decade on and my understanding of the narrative associated with this has changed, eloquently explained by @fuseodg. This is just my personal stance, I’m hoping it’s a forward-looking one. Love to all x.”

Reps for Band Aid have not responded to PEOPLE’s request for comment.

The “Shape of You” singer was referring to an Instagram Stories post from Ghanian-English afrobeats musician Fuse ODG, who revealed why he declined to participate in Band Aid’s 2014 version of the track.

“I refused to participate in Band Aid because I recognised the harm initiatives like it inflict on Africa,” he wrote.

Fuse, 35, continued: “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.”

“By showcasing dehumanizing imagery, these initiatives fuel pity rather than partnership, discouraging meaningful engagement. My mission has been to reclaim the narrative, empowering Africans to tell their own stories, redefine their identity and position Africa as a thriving hub for investment and tourism,” Fuse added.

“Today, the diaspora drives the largest funds back into the continent, not Band Aid or foreign aid providing that Africa’s solutions and progress lies in its own hands,” he concluded.

According to Billboard, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” was initially released in 1984 following a report by the BBC into famine in Ethiopia.

However, since been criticized for its patronizing stance toward issues in Africa, per The Guardian.