Live. Being at Queen’s last show with Freddie at Knebworth. And Springsteen at Bramell Lane Sheffield 1988 Song. Too many to mention but I’ll plump for Its All Gone by Chris Rea Album. Easy one , Misplaced Childhood by Marillion Event. Another concert but what an event. Not Live Aid but the Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute at Wembley. The whole day was great and I got into bands I never took much notice of. And I got to meet The Fatboys!
Michael Jackson performing Billy Jean on the Motown 25th Anniversary Special. We saw him do the Moonwalk for the first time in one of his live performances.
I echo Queen at Live Aid. But will add We Are the World and Tears Are Not Enough (that one never gets the attention it deserves) as honorable mentions.
I used to be a courier and I picked up the master tape for this from Midge Ures house to deliver to the record label for pressing. Imagine knocking on the front door and Simon Le bon wearing black leather trousers opening it. I must have been the first person who wasn't a musician to have heard it as Midge was still adding bits and i had to wait.
One evening I was running a live syndicated satellite feed of a Duran Duran special at my radio station here in L.A. This was November 29, 1984, a mere 4 days after the song was recorded in the UK. At the end of the show DD introduces an upcoming charity song they were involved with, "Do They Know It's Christmas". I was already recording the special, and was just in awe how great this song was, knowing this would be perfect for us. When the show was over I called our assistant program director at home and played the song over the phone. He agreed and asked me to immediately put the song on cart and write it on the music log through the next day. The US 45 wouldn't be serviced to radio for another week, so we had an exclusive! We played Band Aid's hit all the way into the first week of February. To this day it's my all-time Christmas song, and always brings a tear.
Let’s just take a second to appreciate how well crafted this segment was. Weaving together an ensemble of interviews to create this magnificent tapestry, worthy of the subject. Amazing work from Adam and the team, for a song that was literally transcendent. Bravo
Well said, this guys TH-cam channel is one of the few that be remembered in the future, all of these interviews. Just top tier, no other way to say say it.
My friends and I would run MTV in the background at gatherings and every time the song came on whatever was going on would stop and we'd all watch, looking for our favorite performers. It played constantly! We contributed to the relief fund and were so proud to tell our folks how our favorite artists were doing such a cool thing... It was wondrous. And no one I knew misunderstood the Bono line. We got it.
Baffled why anyone _wouldn't_ understand that... _There but for the grace of God go I_ etc... And Bono absolutely nailed it - it's the line that everyone in the later versions battled to win as theirs, he created such an impact.
It was hard to hear this song as a kid when it came out. I felt personally attacked when Bono sang his part! I was probably only five but I had the weight of the world on my shoulders already. It is a good song and a great performance though.
Yes! He was my teenage crush back then....and seeing him now, as you say, makes my heart flutter with that girly excitement. He has aged so well, very distinguished, with the salt and pepper hair, etc. Very scrummy indeed.....
I was a teenager when this came out. Living in small-town USA, obsessed with British bands, it was incredible to see my musical heroes all come together to do something so special. USA for Africa was great, but Band Aid was 1st! This song still makes me emotional. ❤️❤️❤️
I'm sorry we haven't met. But I'm sitting here in England on a rainy Saturday afternoon. And I'm exactly the same. In tears. I've just been so emotional, seeing star's, some no longer with us. Recreating me at 17. Brilliant.
@@gulogulo7636 ...maybe for a few, but most of these people didn't need "advertising". These musicians were the "advertising". They were the reason we bought it. And no one got a paycheck either.
This is the most memorable Charity single of all time, and I love how it gave each vocalist their moment to shine. Though their have been similar collaborations in 2004 and 2014, nothing beats the original!
I remember seeing this on MTV- it was pretty amazing. I loved the entire ensemble, all of the musicians and singers were truly fabulous. it's amazing what one idea, 2 people, and lot of effort can accomplish! It is important to extend Empathy with Action to the those in dire need- Truly Inspiring
My college aged son is studying public policy and one night he texted me that they talked about Duran Duran in his NGO class. He told me they talked about all the problems with Do They Know It’s Christmas as a cautionary tale. In my mind this was a seminal event, that created a new way to engage with charity and world events. And all this from folx who had no experience with policy. It was not perfect, but it was an incredible stepping stone.
There was an entire PBS program on the "dark side" of charity programs, NGOs & the impact on 3rd-world economies that most of us (at least here in the US) aren't aware of or don't stop to think about -- a sobering watch, to say the least. 😢
I remember this well, such an incredible achievement that touched so many people. The fact that so many huge names came together, forgot their egos and changed the world of music. It was a time and a place. Felt quite emotional watching this, brought back many memories. Makes you wonder where that compassion is today, we talk about influencers of today, who seem to be totally self obsessed, but these musicians were true influencers who changed the world.
It’s still there just certain things that are happening in the world aka the 1 percent globalists hell bent on world destruction and Covid have hurt everyone
Yes, and never went to the people in need, just like all the other charitable music videos. The money went to the Concert promoters, producers, and managers, what was left went to the Countries various Governments....
I was a 14 year old punk-ish Anglophile when this came out. It bowled me over when it hit the college radio station I listened to and really impacted how I thought about giving in some way to affect a change, if not money, then with my own efforts. To this day, it hits home and acts as a reminder to be mindful, be generous, and be loving to all. Merry Christmas!
Gotta admit, my heart breaks and I tear up when I listen to or read anything about Band-Aid / Live-Aid. I was a 15-year-old Aussie who is into music big time. I sat and watched the whole day of the Live Aid concert, and I will always remember that day. I totally feel that it's a day that changed our lives. Thanks so much for this episode
Yeah, Mengistu really appreciated all that money he received. Geldof was absolutely right when he said "I'll shake hands with the devil if I need to..."
I get a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye every time I hear this song. There are always going to be people struggling in the world who literally have nothing. Which begs the question Do They Know it’s Christmas time at all? This is a beautiful community who support this channel. Let’s all do just one small thing to brighten the day of someone who needs. Just like this channel brightens ours everyday! Merry Christmas to all of you. ❤
Despite everything, it's actually flawless.. with all the voices fitting the part. A beautifully written song, I never get tired of hearing it (the original one)
I was a senior in high school (in England) when this song came out. It was such a huge hit and such a big deal. And I remember watching Top of the Pops and David Bowie's intro. It was fabulous for an American in England!!! It is one of my absolute favorite Christmas songs! Thank you for this mini-documentary!!! Love to EVERYONE this holiday season!!! :)
I was living in Brussels that winter, and I remember everyone going nuts about it at the International School of Brussels. Didn’t have access to the British channels, but it was awesome to feel this happening.
This song was amazing when it came out because it made you reflective upon your own circumstances yet pensive about the plight of others half way around the world during the supposedly cheerful Holiday season for most of us. This Song will always be in my heart.
I was of an age of many of the musicians involved in Band Aid, and I remember how quickly the video went into not just heavy rotation, but practically HOURLY rotation on MTV, because we couldn't get enough of seeing soooo many favorites together in one project. Loved this look back on how it all came together. ❤
I worked at a record store when this came out. The song was never on an album, just a 45 single and a 12 inch single, but it wasn't easy to get in the U.S. at first. EVERYONE was coming in to buy it but the few copies we got sold out almost immediately. You can bet it would have been #1 in the U.S. if the stock had actually been available. Yes, I got both the 45 and the 12 inch still - and a picture disc. :D
Heard it on the radio. Had no idea that it was for anything. I thought, What is this? Great songwriting. Not that it was a competition, but far and away a better song than We Are the World.
I got an album and it was from Japan. It had a couple of versions of the song and some other songs from Big Country, Boomtown Rats, and more. I do still have it, but it's packed away, so i don't remember everything. I do remember a big pic on the back of everyone and a list of everyone and I would try to memorize them, if i didn't know them already. I used to bring it out every Christmas and play the whole thing. Brought my son up with it. I need to get a record player and do it again.
Very true. Columbia (US) was clueless about this song because Polygram/Phonogram/Polydor Records had the distribution for the UK. Columbia didn't make Band Aid a promotional priority. Had they had the US rights, it could have charted higher and more stock might have been pressed to satisfy the demand. Also there was some resistance from US radio because it came from England. So as usual, the US had to do our own charity single which, though star-studded as well, didn't have the "magic" and emotion of the Geldof/Ure masterpiece. Still, "We Are The World" was a bigger hit here.
The pure love and generosity that went into this song is what makes it one of the very best Christmas songs. God bless the men who came together to make such a beautiful contribution to the world.
Incredible how they managed to pull this tune off, given all the logistics involved. A testament to Bob Geldof’s tenacity and proof that “where there’s a will, there’s a way”! Merry Christmas to you and yours, Adam, and thanks for all that you do!
I never tire of hearing the Band-Aid story. I was almost 13 and I remember my dad driving my friends and I to the mall to by the 45. I have kept the song on my Christmas playlist since my 1st mp3 player.
I never understood why the song did not get the radio air time it deserved. When "We are the World" came out, it seemed to get more play time, where I thought there was a bias in the States due to it being predominately American artists vs UK artists. "Do They Know It's Christmas?" likely also suffered for be a "seasonal" song, so reluctance to air during the non-Holidays. I think, "Do They Know It's Christmas?" is underrated from a musical standpoint. IMO, it captures the mood and stirs the emotions perfectly, something like "We are the World" never matched. To hear the story of how quickly the song came to be has me respect the artists that made it happen even more in creating a timeless classic. Great episode.
We Are the World rankles me. I prefer Do They Know It’s Christmastime, and also Sun City by United Artists Against Apartheid, which rarely ever gets mentioned nowadays but I think it’s an awesome song and more people should check it out.
A great Christmas song that had all of these great British music superstars coming together which inspired "We Are The World" from American artists in the Spring of 1985. Afterwards, there was the Live Aid Concert during the Summer of 1985 which was our generation's Woodstock. I've said before, 1983, 1984, and 1985 was when the 80's really peaked in both music and pop culture. These songs for charity plus that concert were great. I remember it well. Special times.
Truly shows British new wavers ruled in the 80s. They were the inspiration for so many of us Americans. If not for them, we wouldn’t have had an awesome decade.
@@thedys70 I love the music years 1980, 1981, and 1982. The difference is that from 1980-1982 there were still a lot of leftover sounds from the 70s. My point was that it was 1983 when the 80s completely became the 80s and it was never more 80s than the years 1983-1985.
@@stephenhanft1226 Bro, I get what you are saying; might have to agree to disagree here? I'm trying to think of what sound or artist emerged in 1983, that wasn't on the scene already in the three years prior?
I CANNOT LOVE THIS ENOUGH!! i remember these events like it was yesterday. even in the moment then i knew this was big and would be historical. as a young adult this period of music shaped everything about me, caring for others, and having hope and enthusiasm for a brighter future. thank you, professor, for this warm trip down memory lane. i still love and admire especially midge, bob, paul, bono, and duran. LONG LIVE THE WONDERFUL '80s! ❤❤❤
I also say Live Aid, esp Queens performance, Freddy gave us his BEST, & one of his last 💔 & the beginning of MTV. I still cherish that 1st day of MTV, all of my friends were gathered in several homes & we were calling each other giggly & excited about these crazy wonderful clips we were seeing set to the music from the radio ❤️❤️ What a magical moment.... ❤️ 80's ❤️
This song changed my whole view on the world. I was in 4th grade when it came out and just discovering my own taste in music. Seeing some of my idols doing this incredible thing for Ethiopia made me cognisant of the world around me. I was changed forever because of this moment in time.
It's awesome how you interviewed Midge Ure for this. It must've been frustrating for him at times, how Bob was always thought to be the driving force behind this, while it wouldn't have been possible without the two of them together setting this train in motion. As a side note, I'm also very happy to have seen Midge Ure with Ultravox live several years back on their reunion tour, followed by Simple Minds that same night on the same festival, though I really went there for Ultravox). I had to travel to Belgium to see it, but that was something on my bucketlist I never expected to mark off, as I was only 13 years old when Midge left Ultravox. Sadly, there are also some bands and artists I will never be able to mark off (most notably, seeing David Bowie live), but there are gladly also still some artists left which I might be able to mark off some time (Sting, Muse, Rammstein). And even some who I hope to mark off a second time (Jean Michel Jarre concerts are awesome, and so are Iron Maiden concerts!) And yes, that's what you may call an eclectic taste: all over the place and totally mismatched in style.
@@earthcat actually Bob got him whiskey to loosen up his voice Boy George might be a thorn in my side sometimes but he is a great talent and he can be tolerated by me long as George Michael doesn't get talked about by him LOL
I remember this period- the famine, widespread starvation….. the pictures are etched in my mind. This song to me (and the charity behind it) is beautiful- I still turn the volume up on the radio when it comes on. The background story on how this came together- amazing ❤
What MTV could have been if had evolved MUSIC JOURNALISM the right way. These interviews are historical records and will transcend generations. Thank you.
I remember hearing that multiple artists were coming together to create a song. It wouldn’t compute how this would work as it hadn’t happened before. First time I heard it I knew it was huge. It just hit home immediately and told the harsh truth. I’m so (apply I was around to watch this piece of history be born.
This is, without a doubt, my favorite episode on your channel, Professor! Working in retail I know that the background music where I work will include this magnificent song many times during the holiday season. Those heavy clangs at the beginning always let me know that I'll be tearing up soon. Love this song, love its impact and I love your appreciation of an amazing moment. Kudos, maestro!
But what happened to the money was dissapointing, alot of it the goods, and finances were never seen by the people it was meant for. Not saying Bob or anyone took the money. The milita groups and others on the african end who said they would help, did help, but only themselves.
In 1984 the UK's top pop royalty came together to create a magnificent cultural touchstone that went around the world and united all! Punkers, metalheads, teenyboppers, Mods, Goths, Normies, etc. Everyone loved that tune when it came out. I saw it for myself all those years ago! There's was more talent in Midge Ure's recording studio that day than the top 10 artists of the past 20 years combined! Band-aid will never be replicated again, nor should it be attempted with a modern lineup. Imagine trying to do that now with today's modern pop music stars. Lizzo? Carti B? Justin Bieber? Ugh - it would be soulless sonic sacrilege! BTW - great job Adam for bringing this short documentary together! One of your best interviews and videos to date! Cheers!
This is absolute pure magic. This is one of my favorite interviews/stories on this channel. I remember when I first herd this song back in the 80's. It's so powerful and impactful that it brought tears to my eyes. Thank you.
What a great documentary. I don't know why Midge said that it wasn't a great song because I think it is. It is my favourite Christmas song that I revisit regularly on TH-cam. Absolutely amazing how they put everything together in such a short period of time to come out with an amazing product at the end of it. It must have been fate how everything came together so perfectly.
Alicia I’m beginning to notice that about a lot of things. Tv and radio had to be my best friends back then. But when they start talking about the dates. I can’t believe how long ago it’s been. The first time I heard “I want a hippopotamus for Christmas “ about 5 years ago. I thought it was something new. Then I went home and looked it up on TH-cam. They used to have a very good video of her doing the Ed Sullivan’s show. And a little history on her. But as usual they took it down soon after. I’m just glad that people have saved this type of stuff.And put it out there for us. It’s like Christmas every day.
Oh God, I miss the 80’s. The enthusiasm, the feeling that everything was possible. You just had to do your bit & maybe you’d make it big. That feeling was actually real, I’ve experienced it several times.
Thanks Adam! This is such an Epic documentary of a "Lightning In A Bottle" event it's truly worthy of an IDA. The tsunami of relief this recording generated can barely be measured. And your production, interviews and film clips gathered are nothing short of brilliant. I think you deserve more recognition for your work. And to your team, however large or small, well done.
We often feel powerless in life. But to hear accomplished music superstars like Midge Ure and Bob Geldof conclude that they are "absolutely useless at everything" is shocking! Well, perhaps everything EXCEPT song-writing. But using their strengths - talent, connections, ambition - they raised over $100 million for famine relief. We all need to tap into our individual strengths.
Exactly. Our favorite musicians, no matter who they are, are human just like us. We’re born to make mistakes. But using our strengths to the fullest of abilities always makes us proud.
Merry Christmas to everyone out there and this song 38 years later still has a powerful and urgent message that humanity and caring for each other is needed more than ever today
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 merry Christmas to you, lily it has been a joy talking music with you this past year may you and your loved ones have an excellent Christmas
A lot of people credit the Mariah Carey song as being what kicks off the season for them... for me, it's this. Hearing this is what puts me in the Christmas mindset.
I was in my 20's in the 80's. I remember watching Live Aid on TV and just being blown away. I still have my Live Aid t-shirt that I received for making a donation. I have a picture of my now 30 year old daughter as a toddler, wearing it as a nightshirt. This summer we took a picture of my 2 1/2 year old grandson wearing it as a nightshirt as well. My daughter knows the t-shirt is sacred, it has meaning! It will be handed down through generations, I hope.
This comes a year after it's first release/airing but WOW!! What an incredible episode to the behind the scenes, making of, what has become a Christmas holiday traditional staple, Do They Know It's Christmastime. To hear how Midge Ure describes it, along with Tony Hadley, Paul Young is just amazing. True to what Midge says "without Bono belting out his line, it turned the song around. It was magic that happened."
I thought I was the last person on the planet who remembered Collins drumming. When he was with genesis he was a phenomenal drummer..you can count on 1 hand how many people can sing and drum at the same time. Don Henley, Phil Collins,.. yes, very Short list. People forget how talented Phil Collins was. He was way more then Disney songs for movies.
Such a great story. This is what music is about. I don't know who said it, but now of my favorite quotes is, "Music is the sound the soul makes." Music is a magical entity that binds every human, regardless of their differences. This is one beautiful example of its power to enlighten and bring people together to aid in an horrific injustice. Thank you for this episode!!
Do They Know It's Christmas was such a magical record for me when I was a kid. I probably love it as much now as I did then. It still gives me chills. Definitely reminds me of being 10 years old dreaming of the world in front of me. Midge Ure is such a great gut. Meet him and Paul Young a few years back when they toured together. Both were very approachable and both looked me in the eye and cared about what I had to say. All class. Thanks again for another great video, Adam. Merry Christmas my friend!
Speaking about how amazing this was and it was everyone doing it with egos left at the door made me so sad to say that this would never ever happen in this day and age. 😔 This kind of selfless work for a good cause is dead. This project was magical and could never be repeated. Most artists only sell autographs and treat fans like a disease. I’m thankful I got to witness it. ❤️
Well done! What a great review and flashback this was. Be super proud of this one because it represents not a song or a group but a cause and a coming together of who's who from the era. As stated, there were no producers or agents or record label in the house, just the talent, and it made them real people in our eyes, not just music idols. You captured this so very well.
Listening to Feed the World for over 35 years now, will have a renewed appreciation this coming Christmas when I know I'll hear it a dozens of times. Thank you. 😊
I remember when this song came out. I was a college sophomore. And I remember going to the record store to get a copy of it for myself. I thought how cool it was that the proceeds would go towards famine relief. And it was great to see artists that I was just discovering on it! Nearly 40 years later and I keep it on my Christmas playlist.
This demonstrated the power to make change that music has. Makes me teary eyed honestly. Who knows how many starving people lived because of the food this song brought them. Love comes in many forms. I'm proud to say I love music and the creators of it because of deeds like this. Selflessness in a industry full of narcissists. Tell me music doesn't have the ability to change the world. This is proof
Thank you for this. I love this song. I remember hearing it for the first time on the radio sometime after Thanksgiving 1984. It was like nothing else out there -- a holiday song for Gen X! Then the DJ came on and explained that it was a fundraiser for the Ethiopian famine (which was all over the news), and I knew I had to hear it again. Every time it came on the radio, I listened. Once it was on MTV (with so many of my favorite British singers), I would watch. Knowing that the record's profits went to African famine relief, it was the one thing I wanted for the holidays that year. I was young, but I hoped I made a little bit of a difference.
This would have the perfect time to get Paul, George and Ringo together to sing a verse on this song. It would have been a Beatles reunion before the Anthology in '93.
Professor, this was a great episode. I was 12 when this came out, and loved the song as many of my favorites were on the record. The two performers who really sat and out to me on this song were Bono, with his delivery of a very harsh but necessary lyric, and Boy George. Kudos to Midge and Bob. This recording was the ripple that later became a wave which really made a difference.
I was in college at the time. It was a magical feeling hearing it back then and seeing the video.. I was more cynical about "we are the world", but this one was the only one that touched me.
Professor's new name is Professor Badass!! You're a YT legend, sitting down first with Gary Numan, and now with Midge Ure..and like Geldof, they all know the truth your channel presents. Well done!
I remember when this came out. It seemed iconic at the time and what's perhaps not amazing is that it's still iconic. All these giants of the music industry in one room at one time working towards a beautiful and much needed goal. Still brings a tear to my eye sometimes. Thanks for doing this and please have you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a great New Year! ✌🇨🇦❄☃️💚❤💚❤🎅🌟🎆🎇✨🎉🎊⭐
No matter how often they TRY to redo this song, they will NEVER recapture the magic. The original is the best version, and always will be. I will never forget the moment I saw this on MTV, it still remains one of my favorite Christmas songs of all time.
I have watched the original video of this song over an over again. Do they know it’s Christmas changed everything. Band Aid was magical. Pure Magic on the radio. I know I bought it that Christmas. So.
What a great vid! This song has had the power to bring a lump to my throat for 37 years now. And if you watch the Live Aid DVD Intro... Thank you for documenting this epic collaboration. The interviews were so well done with the mix of segments with Midge Ure, Tony Hadley and Paul Young. Epic!
I became a huge fan of Midge Ure after my father died, and I'd heard the PURE album. It brought me out of a major depression. Thanks, Midge. I'm not a bad singer, but I wish to hell, I could sing like you.
I remember when this came out in 1984. Thank you, Professor! Happy Holidays and many blessings to you, your family and of course the team who helps you create the incredible content on this channel. xox
Thank you for sharing this. It took me back to another time to see these artists with their best intentions helping war torn Ethiopia. They made us all sit up and notice how much suffering was in the world. Thank you. ❤
Thank you for this gift. It fills my heart all over again, to see, hear, and remember this music, and to hear the story behind it. There was a groundswell of energy that made this happen, which still reverberates on earth. The huge crowd and all the musicians singing together gave me chills and made me wish I'd been there. It must have been an amazing vibration. I imagine the angels in heaven sang along... and God wept with joy.
This song gives me chills. I didn’t have cable TV and only saw this music video at friend’s homes. I loved it on the radio. Such a wonderful way to direct funds to help with large scale human tragedy.
it always gets to me, too. as an American, in a time of what seems like overwhelming greed, conceit, lack of care for anyone else, i just long for this attitude of generosity to flourish again. thanks so much for this.
Thanks for sharing! Major kudos to Bob Geldof for arranging this all-star performance and setting the bar so high that future charity singles cannot be topped (though We Are the World is equally remarkable). I wish you and everyone infinite peace, love, and joy this holiday season.
It isn't Christmas unti I hear the original version, the season eludes me without this iconic song. This last year was miserable right up until Christmas eve, then I finally heard the bells and those opening drum beats and I was almost overcome. This is 2022 and I suddenly had tears in my eyes and I was smiling and singing through my mask without thinking as I was getting a last few things. I came home and was like.. It's finally Christmas. I heard THE SONG. My daughter thinks I'm nuts. She said, it's on Spotify, TH-cam you can play it whenever. But nope, it must be heard out in the wild for the magic to work. There is something pure and sincere about the original Do They Know It's Christmas. It even manages to break through my cynical and unimpressed armor.
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Poll: What is your pick for the greatest music moment of the 80s combing live, song, album or event?
Queen's performance at Live Aid.
Live. Being at Queen’s last show with Freddie at Knebworth. And Springsteen at Bramell Lane Sheffield 1988
Song. Too many to mention but I’ll plump for Its All Gone by Chris Rea
Album. Easy one , Misplaced Childhood by Marillion
Event. Another concert but what an event. Not Live Aid but the Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute at Wembley. The whole day was great and I got into bands I never took much notice of. And I got to meet The Fatboys!
13th of July, 1985!
Michael Jackson performing Billy Jean on the Motown 25th Anniversary Special. We saw him do the Moonwalk for the first time in one of his live performances.
I echo Queen at Live Aid. But will add We Are the World and Tears Are Not Enough (that one never gets the attention it deserves) as honorable mentions.
I used to be a courier and I picked up the master tape for this from Midge Ures house to deliver to the record label for pressing. Imagine knocking on the front door and Simon Le bon wearing black leather trousers opening it. I must have been the first person who wasn't a musician to have heard it as Midge was still adding bits and i had to wait.
That is a cool story!
Wow, that must have been amazing. You're actually in your own way, a part of history.
Totally awesome!
Don’t think anyone can top you at the pub
One evening I was running a live syndicated satellite feed of a Duran Duran special at my radio station here in L.A. This was November 29, 1984, a mere 4 days after the song was recorded in the UK. At the end of the show DD introduces an upcoming charity song they were involved with, "Do They Know It's Christmas". I was already recording the special, and was just in awe how great this song was, knowing this would be perfect for us. When the show was over I called our assistant program director at home and played the song over the phone. He agreed and asked me to immediately put the song on cart and write it on the music log through the next day. The US 45 wouldn't be serviced to radio for another week, so we had an exclusive! We played Band Aid's hit all the way into the first week of February. To this day it's my all-time Christmas song, and always brings a tear.
Let’s just take a second to appreciate how well crafted this segment was. Weaving together an ensemble of interviews to create this magnificent tapestry, worthy of the subject. Amazing work from Adam and the team, for a song that was literally transcendent. Bravo
"Let’s just take a second to ..."
^ Old
A GREAT video!
@@billwilson5341 No kidding.
AGREED
Well said, this guys TH-cam channel is one of the few that be remembered in the future, all of these interviews. Just top tier, no other way to say say it.
My friends and I would run MTV in the background at gatherings and every time the song came on whatever was going on would stop and we'd all watch, looking for our favorite performers. It played constantly! We contributed to the relief fund and were so proud to tell our folks how our favorite artists were doing such a cool thing... It was wondrous.
And no one I knew misunderstood the Bono line. We got it.
I always understood that line also. It really drove the point of the song.
Baffled why anyone _wouldn't_ understand that... _There but for the grace of God go I_ etc...
And Bono absolutely nailed it - it's the line that everyone in the later versions battled to win as theirs, he created such an impact.
It was hard to hear this song as a kid when it came out. I felt personally attacked when Bono sang his part! I was probably only five but I had the weight of the world on my shoulders already. It is a good song and a great performance though.
I still have my original 45 single and Paul Young still makes my heart flutter.
I love him too. He’s one of my favorite singers.
Yes! He was my teenage crush back then....and seeing him now, as you say, makes my heart flutter with that girly excitement. He has aged so well, very distinguished, with the salt and pepper hair, etc. Very scrummy indeed.....
He's very underrated, except in an "underground" sort of way. A phenomenal bass player as well as a talented singer!
@@Mike-fp6hb He was Just Chatting Jeez Paul was faithful to Stacey may she Rest in Peace🥹
I was a teenager when this came out. Living in small-town USA, obsessed with British bands, it was incredible to see my musical heroes all come together to do something so special. USA for Africa was great, but Band Aid was 1st! This song still makes me emotional. ❤️❤️❤️
I'm sorry we haven't met. But I'm sitting here in England on a rainy Saturday afternoon. And I'm exactly the same. In tears. I've just been so emotional, seeing star's, some no longer with us. Recreating me at 17. Brilliant.
Both were all about the free advertising.
@@gulogulo7636 ...maybe for a few, but most of these people didn't need "advertising". These musicians were the "advertising". They were the reason we bought it. And no one got a paycheck either.
I could have written this statement…..so very true for me too
This is the most memorable Charity single of all time, and I love how it gave each vocalist their moment to shine. Though their have been similar collaborations in 2004 and 2014, nothing beats the original!
Nothing beats the first!
I remember seeing this on MTV- it was pretty amazing. I loved the entire ensemble, all of the musicians and singers were truly fabulous. it's amazing what one idea, 2 people, and lot of effort can accomplish! It is important to extend Empathy with Action to the those in dire need- Truly Inspiring
Much better than We Are the World.
Oh that's a fact! Hard to imagine anyone ever tops this!
We are the world
My college aged son is studying public policy and one night he texted me that they talked about Duran Duran in his NGO class. He told me they talked about all the problems with Do They Know It’s Christmas as a cautionary tale.
In my mind this was a seminal event, that created a new way to engage with charity and world events. And all this from folx who had no experience with policy. It was not perfect, but it was an incredible stepping stone.
There was an entire PBS program on the "dark side" of charity programs, NGOs & the impact on 3rd-world economies that most of us (at least here in the US) aren't aware of or don't stop to think about -- a sobering watch, to say the least. 😢
Do most Ethiopians celebrate Christmas? I thought they were mainly Jewish. Good song though.
Love Midge Ure's voice. Ultravox were so underrated!
I agree!
I love Ultravox. The New Romantics were cool.
"this means nothing to me...oh Vienna..."
I love Midge PERIOD.
Ah Vienna 🤔 Vienna?
I remember this well, such an incredible achievement that touched so many people. The fact that so many huge names came together, forgot their egos and changed the world of music. It was a time and a place. Felt quite emotional watching this, brought back many memories. Makes you wonder where that compassion is today, we talk about influencers of today, who seem to be totally self obsessed, but these musicians were true influencers who changed the world.
It’s still there just certain things that are happening in the world aka the 1 percent globalists hell bent on world destruction and Covid have hurt everyone
How about how the "aid" totally screwed up the economy of the countries they "helped"😢😢😢 Sad
Yes, and never went to the people in need, just like all the other charitable music videos. The money went to the Concert promoters, producers, and managers, what was left went to the Countries various Governments....
I was a 14 year old punk-ish Anglophile when this came out. It bowled me over when it hit the college radio station I listened to and really impacted how I thought about giving in some way to affect a change, if not money, then with my own efforts. To this day, it hits home and acts as a reminder to be mindful, be generous, and be loving to all. Merry Christmas!
Gotta admit, my heart breaks and I tear up when I listen to or read anything about Band-Aid / Live-Aid. I was a 15-year-old Aussie who is into music big time. I sat and watched the whole day of the Live Aid concert, and I will always remember that day. I totally feel that it's a day that changed our lives. Thanks so much for this episode
Yeah, Mengistu really appreciated all that money he received. Geldof was absolutely right when he said "I'll shake hands with the devil if I need to..."
'Thank God it's them instead of you', is the only part of the song that brings a tear to my eye. Best part of the song.
How the woke folks misinterpret that line decades later is another mystery. I understand Bono sings a different lyric if he performs the song.
Nice one, Midge Ure never gets enough credit. And we can thank them for Freddie at Live AID.
Couldn't agree more!
Live Aid would not be possible without Band Aid. 🩹
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Same people.
I had the album with Vienna but, my absolute favorite is One Small Day.
He was great in Accept!
IMHO - Paul Young is one of the most underrated awesome singers EVER!! ... Period!
IMO he's not. He's rated right where he should be.
He has a brilliant voice.
He put on an amazing live show too. Saw him twice, and he just gave his all in performance.
I get a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye every time I hear this song. There are always going to be people struggling in the world who literally have nothing. Which begs the question Do They Know it’s Christmas time at all? This is a beautiful community who support this channel. Let’s all do just one small thing to brighten the day of someone who needs. Just like this channel brightens ours everyday! Merry Christmas to all of you. ❤
Some folks are just cruel and ignorant sometimes, and so I’m grateful we have this song.
Despite everything, it's actually flawless.. with all the voices fitting the part. A beautifully written song, I never get tired of hearing it (the original one)
I was a senior in high school (in England) when this song came out. It was such a huge hit and such a big deal. And I remember watching Top of the Pops and David Bowie's intro. It was fabulous for an American in England!!! It is one of my absolute favorite Christmas songs! Thank you for this mini-documentary!!! Love to EVERYONE this holiday season!!! :)
Pretty cool. No musicians were more clever than the Brits, that’s for sure.
I was living in Brussels that winter, and I remember everyone going nuts about it at the International School of Brussels.
Didn’t have access to the British channels, but it was awesome to feel this happening.
This song was amazing when it came out because it made you reflective upon your own circumstances yet pensive about the plight of others half way around the world during the supposedly cheerful Holiday season for most of us. This Song will always be in my heart.
AMen to that! Thanks for sharing.
Now THIS is how you do a charity song.
I was of an age of many of the musicians involved in Band Aid, and I remember how quickly the video went into not just heavy rotation, but practically HOURLY rotation on MTV, because we couldn't get enough of seeing soooo many favorites together in one project. Loved this look back on how it all came together. ❤
That's a good point. I think MTV played a very big role in getting the song and the issue out in the states.
I worked at a record store when this came out. The song was never on an album, just a 45 single and a 12 inch single, but it wasn't easy to get in the U.S. at first. EVERYONE was coming in to buy it but the few copies we got sold out almost immediately. You can bet it would have been #1 in the U.S. if the stock had actually been available.
Yes, I got both the 45 and the 12 inch still - and a picture disc. :D
I have it!
That’s insane.
Heard it on the radio. Had no idea that it was for anything. I thought, What is this? Great songwriting. Not that it was a competition, but far and away a better song than We Are the World.
I got an album and it was from Japan. It had a couple of versions of the song and some other songs from Big Country, Boomtown Rats, and more. I do still have it, but it's packed away, so i don't remember everything. I do remember a big pic on the back of everyone and a list of everyone and I would try to memorize them, if i didn't know them already. I used to bring it out every Christmas and play the whole thing. Brought my son up with it. I need to get a record player and do it again.
Very true. Columbia (US) was clueless about this song because Polygram/Phonogram/Polydor Records had the distribution for the UK. Columbia didn't make Band Aid a promotional priority. Had they had the US rights, it could have charted higher and more stock might have been pressed to satisfy the demand. Also there was some resistance from US radio because it came from England. So as usual, the US had to do our own charity single which, though star-studded as well, didn't have the "magic" and emotion of the Geldof/Ure masterpiece. Still, "We Are The World" was a bigger hit here.
The pure love and generosity that went into this song is what makes it one of the very best Christmas songs. God bless the men who came together to make such a beautiful contribution to the world.
It’s REAL talent.
This is one of my favorite Christmas songs, and it ALWAYS brings tears to my eyes! (And it's NOT Christmas, UNTIL I hear it on the radio.)
38 years later and this song STILL gets to me. Great interviews!
Everyone looks so young! Of course back in 84 I did too.
Incredible how they managed to pull this tune off, given all the logistics involved. A testament to Bob Geldof’s tenacity and proof that “where there’s a will, there’s a way”! Merry Christmas to you and yours, Adam, and thanks for all that you do!
Merry Christmas Robster! Thank you so much for your amazing support!
Merry Christmas and happy holidays! 🎄
Midge Ure is a name that needs to be know more in this world. Right along with Brian Eno.
Paul Young and Midge Ure look fantastic!
I never tire of hearing the Band-Aid story. I was almost 13 and I remember my dad driving my friends and I to the mall to by the 45. I have kept the song on my Christmas playlist since my 1st mp3 player.
As he said, “That [Feed the world] always gets me,” I was experiencing chills. Every time. We need to care for each other.
Such a great song sad some of those artists are sadly no longer here. It is such a snapshot in time of some of the greatest artists of all time.
I bought this on 45 vinyl that year. I still have it with the original sleeve. To me it's an integral part of music history.
I never understood why the song did not get the radio air time it deserved. When "We are the World" came out, it seemed to get more play time, where I thought there was a bias in the States due to it being predominately American artists vs UK artists. "Do They Know It's Christmas?" likely also suffered for be a "seasonal" song, so reluctance to air during the non-Holidays.
I think, "Do They Know It's Christmas?" is underrated from a musical standpoint. IMO, it captures the mood and stirs the emotions perfectly, something like "We are the World" never matched. To hear the story of how quickly the song came to be has me respect the artists that made it happen even more in creating a timeless classic. Great episode.
It's true.
We Are the World rankles me. I prefer Do They Know It’s Christmastime, and also Sun City by United Artists Against Apartheid, which rarely ever gets mentioned nowadays but I think it’s an awesome song and more people should check it out.
I felt exactly the same way!
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Wow. I almost forgot about "I'm Not Gonna Play Sun City".
@@billkeithchannel A hidden gem indeed.
A great Christmas song that had all of these great British music superstars coming together which inspired "We Are The World" from American artists in the Spring of 1985. Afterwards, there was the Live Aid Concert during the Summer of 1985 which was our generation's Woodstock. I've said before, 1983, 1984, and 1985 was when the 80's really peaked in both music and pop culture. These songs for charity plus that concert were great. I remember it well. Special times.
It was a great moment.
Truly shows British new wavers ruled in the 80s. They were the inspiration for so many of us Americans. If not for them, we wouldn’t have had an awesome decade.
Don't be harsh on 1981 or 1982; they were every bit as important as 1983, 1984, and 1985, perhaps minus the recordings for charity.
@@thedys70 I love the music years 1980, 1981, and 1982. The difference is that from 1980-1982 there were still a lot of leftover sounds from the 70s. My point was that it was 1983 when the 80s completely became the 80s and it was never more 80s than the years 1983-1985.
@@stephenhanft1226 Bro, I get what you are saying; might have to agree to disagree here? I'm trying to think of what sound or artist emerged in 1983, that wasn't on the scene already in the three years prior?
I CANNOT LOVE THIS ENOUGH!!
i remember these events like it was yesterday. even in the moment then i knew this was big and would be historical. as a young adult this period of music shaped everything about me, caring for others, and having hope and enthusiasm for a brighter future.
thank you, professor, for this warm trip down memory lane. i still love and admire especially midge, bob, paul, bono, and duran.
LONG LIVE THE WONDERFUL '80s! ❤❤❤
I also say Live Aid, esp Queens performance, Freddy gave us his BEST, & one of his last 💔 & the beginning of MTV. I still cherish that 1st day of MTV, all of my friends were gathered in several homes & we were calling each other giggly & excited about these crazy wonderful clips we were seeing set to the music from the radio ❤️❤️ What a magical moment.... ❤️ 80's ❤️
A one of a kind experience.
This actually teared me up. Where is this today. It was a moment. Like the Berlin wall falling. It was history. It was beautiful.
Beautiful story about some very generous, thoughtful people who cared enough to make a difference, when so many people didn't. God bless you all.
Midge is so real...definitely someone you would want to have a beer with at the local.
This song changed my whole view on the world. I was in 4th grade when it came out and just discovering my own taste in music. Seeing some of my idols doing this incredible thing for Ethiopia made me cognisant of the world around me. I was changed forever because of this moment in time.
It's awesome how you interviewed Midge Ure for this. It must've been frustrating for him at times, how Bob was always thought to be the driving force behind this, while it wouldn't have been possible without the two of them together setting this train in motion.
As a side note, I'm also very happy to have seen Midge Ure with Ultravox live several years back on their reunion tour, followed by Simple Minds that same night on the same festival, though I really went there for Ultravox). I had to travel to Belgium to see it, but that was something on my bucketlist I never expected to mark off, as I was only 13 years old when Midge left Ultravox. Sadly, there are also some bands and artists I will never be able to mark off (most notably, seeing David Bowie live), but there are gladly also still some artists left which I might be able to mark off some time (Sting, Muse, Rammstein). And even some who I hope to mark off a second time (Jean Michel Jarre concerts are awesome, and so are Iron Maiden concerts!)
And yes, that's what you may call an eclectic taste: all over the place and totally mismatched in style.
That's my kinda music list!!! Iron Maiden, Ultravox, U2, Boy George, Led Zeppelin, and so many more! Tunes! The only way to go!!
Jarre fan here! You have great taste! And of course, Midge and the guys.
Judith, you took the words right out of my mouth; Geldof got all the accilades and Nudge was largely ignored.
Keeping Boy George sober enough to sing was probably a full time endeavour.
@@earthcat actually Bob got him whiskey to loosen up his voice Boy George might be a thorn in my side sometimes but he is a great talent and he can be tolerated by me long as George Michael doesn't get talked about by him LOL
My dad still has his original copy from when we lived in England, on 45, of course. I grew up with it, and I still love it❤
I remember this period- the famine, widespread starvation….. the pictures are etched in my mind. This song to me (and the charity behind it) is beautiful- I still turn the volume up on the radio when it comes on. The background story on how this came together- amazing ❤
So to say there’s still starvation in the world
What MTV could have been if had evolved MUSIC JOURNALISM the right way. These interviews are historical records and will transcend generations. Thank you.
I remember hearing that multiple artists were coming together to create a song. It wouldn’t compute how this would work as it hadn’t happened before. First time I heard it I knew it was huge. It just hit home immediately and told the harsh truth. I’m so (apply I was around to watch this piece of history be born.
This is, without a doubt, my favorite episode on your channel, Professor! Working in retail I know that the background music where I work will include this magnificent song many times during the holiday season. Those heavy clangs at the beginning always let me know that I'll be tearing up soon. Love this song, love its impact and I love your appreciation of an amazing moment. Kudos, maestro!
Kudos to Bob Geldof for arranging this performance, and bringing everyone together for this Charity Single!
It's still so amazing if you think about it. How he they it.
Too bad geldoff turned out to be such a douche
The master of it all.
Don't forget Midge Ure! It was a joint effort.
But what happened to the money was dissapointing, alot of it the goods, and finances were never seen by the people it was meant for. Not saying Bob or anyone took the money. The milita groups and others on the african end who said they would help, did help, but only themselves.
In 1984 the UK's top pop royalty came together to create a magnificent cultural touchstone that went around the world and united all! Punkers, metalheads, teenyboppers, Mods, Goths, Normies, etc. Everyone loved that tune when it came out. I saw it for myself all those years ago!
There's was more talent in Midge Ure's recording studio that day than the top 10 artists of the past 20 years combined! Band-aid will never be replicated again, nor should it be attempted with a modern lineup. Imagine trying to do that now with today's modern pop music stars. Lizzo? Carti B? Justin Bieber? Ugh - it would be soulless sonic sacrilege!
BTW - great job Adam for bringing this short documentary together! One of your best interviews and videos to date! Cheers!
This is absolute pure magic. This is one of my favorite interviews/stories on this channel. I remember when I first herd this song back in the 80's. It's so powerful and impactful that it brought tears to my eyes. Thank you.
Paul Young. I love him. Great video. Remember bass line in Come back and stay? Sweet and holy Lord... Genius.
Oh yes! Love that song.
Great song. That’s a cover of an earlier song from 1981.
Loved Come Back And Stay along with I’m Going To Tear Your Playhouse Down.
One of the most important days in the history of music. A game challenger which led to dozens of welcome imitators. Well done Bob and Midge.
Couldn't agree more!
Game changer, you mean? Anyway, this was a spectacular event.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 whoops my bad
@@robertcringle4865 It’s okay! I make mistakes like that too.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 cool, thanks.
Merry merry to you
What a great documentary. I don't know why Midge said that it wasn't a great song because I think it is. It is my favourite Christmas song that I revisit regularly on TH-cam. Absolutely amazing how they put everything together in such a short period of time to come out with an amazing product at the end of it. It must have been fate how everything came together so perfectly.
I was 30 during this time but didn’t recognize how special it all was. Great interviews and story, brought tears to my eyes. ❤
Alicia I’m beginning to notice that about a lot of things. Tv and radio had to be my best friends back then. But when they start talking about the dates. I can’t believe how long ago it’s been. The first time I heard “I want a hippopotamus for Christmas “ about 5 years ago. I thought it was something new. Then I went home and looked it up on TH-cam. They used to have a very good video of her doing the Ed Sullivan’s show. And a little history on her. But as usual they took it down soon after. I’m just glad that people have saved this type of stuff.And put it out there for us. It’s like Christmas every day.
Oh God, I miss the 80’s.
The enthusiasm, the feeling that everything was possible.
You just had to do your bit & maybe you’d make it big.
That feeling was actually real, I’ve experienced it several times.
Thanks Adam!
This is such an Epic documentary of a "Lightning In A Bottle" event it's truly worthy of an IDA. The tsunami of relief this recording generated can barely be measured. And your production, interviews and film clips gathered are nothing short of brilliant.
I think you deserve more recognition for your work. And to your team, however large or small, well done.
We often feel powerless in life. But to hear accomplished music superstars like Midge Ure and Bob Geldof conclude that they are "absolutely useless at everything" is shocking! Well, perhaps everything EXCEPT song-writing. But using their strengths - talent, connections, ambition - they raised over $100 million for famine relief. We all need to tap into our individual strengths.
A real human side in this interview.
Exactly. Our favorite musicians, no matter who they are, are human just like us. We’re born to make mistakes. But using our strengths to the fullest of abilities always makes us proud.
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P pop pop
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Merry Christmas to everyone out there and this song 38 years later still has a powerful and urgent message that humanity and caring for each other is needed more than ever today
Thanks George!
@@annatrail2042 very good point indeed but all we can do is do our best every day
@@annatrail2042 the same to you as well thanks for sharing
Merry Christmas to you, George! 🎄
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 merry Christmas to you, lily it has been a joy talking music with you this past year may you and your loved ones have an excellent Christmas
A lot of people credit the Mariah Carey song as being what kicks off the season for them... for me, it's this. Hearing this is what puts me in the Christmas mindset.
The Mariah Carey song makes me want to throw something. I used to work retail.
Yup. For me its this song and A Charlie Brown Christmas that always puts me in the Christmas spirit
@@nzlemming i feel a great well of sympathy for any poor bastard that has to suffer thru Mariah Carey every Christmas...
14:24...HUH??? It's an incredible song, Midge!! Great lyrics, beautiful melody,, unforgettable chorus...It's ICONIC 🌹
So memorable.
It's different when you've had a hand in writing a hit. He's a very humble person and I think that's where that comment came from.
@@jamesCam69 Yeah, I completely understand being a composer myself..
I'm 55 years old and remember when this came out. It was and has been my favorite Christmas song! ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
I was in my 20's in the 80's. I remember watching Live Aid on TV and just being blown away. I still have my Live Aid t-shirt that I received for making a donation. I have a picture of my now 30 year old daughter as a toddler, wearing it as a nightshirt. This summer we took a picture of my 2 1/2 year old grandson wearing it as a nightshirt as well. My daughter knows the t-shirt is sacred, it has meaning! It will be handed down through generations, I hope.
laugh at me orThumb me down if you like, but this song has moved me from the first time i heard it and still does after all these years.
This comes a year after it's first release/airing but WOW!! What an incredible episode to the behind the scenes, making of, what has become a Christmas holiday traditional staple, Do They Know It's Christmastime. To hear how Midge Ure describes it, along with Tony Hadley, Paul Young is just amazing. True to what Midge says "without Bono belting out his line, it turned the song around. It was magic that happened."
The drumming by Phil Collins is next level. It's a huge part of making that song what it is.
I agree. Love Phil!
I thought I was the last person on the planet who remembered Collins drumming. When he was with genesis he was a phenomenal drummer..you can count on 1 hand how many people can sing and drum at the same time. Don Henley, Phil Collins,.. yes, very Short list. People forget how talented Phil Collins was. He was way more then Disney songs for movies.
He’s one of the best drummers out there, besides obviously Neil Peart.
Right there with his drumming on “There’s Something Going On” by Frida. Those songs along with his “In The Air Tonight” should’ve hit #1
@@kennedy6971 Levon Helm
Such a great story. This is what music is about. I don't know who said it, but now of my favorite quotes is, "Music is the sound the soul makes." Music is a magical entity that binds every human, regardless of their differences. This is one beautiful example of its power to enlighten and bring people together to aid in an horrific injustice. Thank you for this episode!!
Do They Know It's Christmas was such a magical record for me when I was a kid. I probably love it as much now as I did then. It still gives me chills. Definitely reminds me of being 10 years old dreaming of the world in front of me. Midge Ure is such a great gut. Meet him and Paul Young a few years back when they toured together. Both were very approachable and both looked me in the eye and cared about what I had to say. All class. Thanks again for another great video, Adam. Merry Christmas my friend!
Beautiful take!
Makes you have hope for Christmas! Some great guys.
I’ve always heard that Paul is a very nice fellow. It’s nice to hear that about Midge too.
I was 3 when hen this iconic song was released
Wow a 20 day turn around
Pulled an all-nighter watching the live aid concerts in Australia with friends in 1985. Unforgettable
Paul Young had an amazing voice. As well as Gearge Michael.
Have you ever seen their performance together at The Prince’s Trust (1986)? That was a very memorable show.
It's amazing how intelligent and articulate musicians are. Blown away by the interviews. Great job!
Speaking about how amazing this was and it was everyone doing it with egos left at the door made me so sad to say that this would never ever happen in this day and age. 😔 This kind of selfless work for a good cause is dead. This project was magical and could never be repeated. Most artists only sell autographs and treat fans like a disease. I’m thankful I got to witness it. ❤️
I remember the raw emotion of watching on LiveAid TV in UK and the subliminal feeling that this was a unique, unrepeatable moment.
Well done! What a great review and flashback this was. Be super proud of this one because it represents not a song or a group but a cause and a coming together of who's who from the era. As stated, there were no producers or agents or record label in the house, just the talent, and it made them real people in our eyes, not just music idols. You captured this so very well.
Listening to Feed the World for over 35 years now, will have a renewed appreciation this coming Christmas when I know I'll hear it a dozens of times. Thank you. 😊
I remember when this song came out. I was a college sophomore. And I remember going to the record store to get a copy of it for myself. I thought how cool it was that the proceeds would go towards famine relief. And it was great to see artists that I was just discovering on it! Nearly 40 years later and I keep it on my Christmas playlist.
This demonstrated the power to make change that music has. Makes me teary eyed honestly. Who knows how many starving people lived because of the food this song brought them. Love comes in many forms. I'm proud to say I love music and the creators of it because of deeds like this. Selflessness in a industry full of narcissists. Tell me music doesn't have the ability to change the world. This is proof
Right. So thankful for the impact this song had.
A Christmas staple for sure, as well as for the concerts and pivotal events that would change music forever. Cheers and Happy Holidays!
Happy holidays!
Happy holidays to you as well!
i bought a copy myself as a kid and i'm all the way from the Philippines. this just goes to show how influential this phenomenon was.
This song cannot be redone, cannot be outdone.
The 2nd version was wocious and im glad i totally missed the one with one direction
@@Dilydaydream1 What does wocious mean?
@@ImYourOverlord beyond awful
@@Dilydaydream1 Never saw that non-word before. Thanks :)
Thank you for this. I love this song. I remember hearing it for the first time on the radio sometime after Thanksgiving 1984. It was like nothing else out there -- a holiday song for Gen X! Then the DJ came on and explained that it was a fundraiser for the Ethiopian famine (which was all over the news), and I knew I had to hear it again. Every time it came on the radio, I listened. Once it was on MTV (with so many of my favorite British singers), I would watch. Knowing that the record's profits went to African famine relief, it was the one thing I wanted for the holidays that year. I was young, but I hoped I made a little bit of a difference.
Thanks Ana. I believe it did make a difference.
Such a great way to help those in poverty, to write a song that actually uplifts.
This would have the perfect time to get Paul, George and Ringo together to sing a verse on this song. It would have been a Beatles reunion before the Anthology in '93.
Professor, this was a great episode.
I was 12 when this came out, and loved the song as many of my favorites were on the record.
The two performers who really sat and out to me on this song were Bono, with his delivery of a very harsh but necessary lyric, and Boy George.
Kudos to Midge and Bob. This recording was the ripple that later became a wave which really made a difference.
This is what I need on a snowy day I can't even see the house across the street. Great video again.
Thanks 👍
I almost got blown away by the wind this morning!
I was in college at the time. It was a magical feeling hearing it back then and seeing the video.. I was more cynical about "we are the world", but this one was the only one that touched me.
Professor's new name is Professor Badass!! You're a YT legend,
sitting down first with Gary Numan, and now with Midge Ure..and like Geldof, they all know the truth your channel presents. Well done!
Rock on! Thanks Barry!
Haha! 😂
I remember when this came out. It seemed iconic at the time and what's perhaps not amazing is that it's still iconic. All these giants of the music industry in one room at one time working towards a beautiful and much needed goal. Still brings a tear to my eye sometimes. Thanks for doing this and please have you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a great New Year! ✌🇨🇦❄☃️💚❤💚❤🎅🌟🎆🎇✨🎉🎊⭐
No matter how often they TRY to redo this song, they will NEVER recapture the magic. The original is the best version, and always will be. I will never forget the moment I saw this on MTV, it still remains one of my favorite Christmas songs of all time.
I have watched the original video of this song over an over again. Do they know it’s Christmas changed everything. Band Aid was magical. Pure Magic on the radio. I know I bought it that Christmas. So.
What a great vid! This song has had the power to bring a lump to my throat for 37 years now. And if you watch the Live Aid DVD Intro... Thank you for documenting this epic collaboration. The interviews were so well done with the mix of segments with Midge Ure, Tony Hadley and Paul Young. Epic!
I became a huge fan of Midge Ure after my father died, and I'd heard the PURE album. It brought me out of a major depression. Thanks, Midge. I'm not a bad singer, but I wish to hell, I could sing like you.
I remember when this came out in 1984. Thank you, Professor! Happy Holidays and many blessings to you, your family and of course the team who helps you create the incredible content on this channel. xox
Happy Holidays and best wishes for the new year Elizabeth! ❤
Thank you for sharing this. It took me back to another time to see these artists with their best intentions helping war torn Ethiopia. They made us all sit up and notice how much suffering was in the world. Thank you. ❤
Thank you for this gift. It fills my heart all over again, to see, hear, and remember this music, and to hear the story behind it. There was a groundswell of energy that made this happen, which still reverberates on earth. The huge crowd and all the musicians singing together gave me chills and made me wish I'd been there. It must have been an amazing vibration. I imagine the angels in heaven sang along... and God wept with joy.
You are SO welcome. Thanks for watching.
It made you want to be a part of the crowd!
This song gives me chills. I didn’t have cable TV and only saw this music video at friend’s homes. I loved it on the radio. Such a wonderful way to direct funds to help with large scale human tragedy.
This makes me very proud of GenX! 💖💖💖
it always gets to me, too. as an American, in a time of what seems like overwhelming greed, conceit, lack of care for anyone else, i just long for this attitude of generosity to flourish again. thanks so much for this.
This was my favorite video to-date you’ve produced. Very good story and interviews with the folks who were actually there. Great job!
I'm not crying. I've just got something stuck in my heart.
Thanks for sharing! Major kudos to Bob Geldof for arranging this all-star performance and setting the bar so high that future charity singles cannot be topped (though We Are the World is equally remarkable). I wish you and everyone infinite peace, love, and joy this holiday season.
It isn't Christmas unti I hear the original version, the season eludes me without this iconic song. This last year was miserable right up until Christmas eve, then I finally heard the bells and those opening drum beats and I was almost overcome. This is 2022 and I suddenly had tears in my eyes and I was smiling and singing through my mask without thinking as I was getting a last few things. I came home and was like.. It's finally Christmas. I heard THE SONG. My daughter thinks I'm nuts. She said, it's on Spotify, TH-cam you can play it whenever. But nope, it must be heard out in the wild for the magic to work. There is something pure and sincere about the original Do They Know It's Christmas. It even manages to break through my cynical and unimpressed armor.