Band Aid Ebola 30?

[Crimson Dynamo]

But say a prayer – 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


------------------------------------------------------------

We know that a group of millionaire celebrities have spent an afternoon singing asking us to donate money for a disease in principally 3 small African countries that has killed around 5000 people. But look at the actual lyrics

"There’s a world outside your window – and it’s a world of dread and fear"


Really, when i look out my window i see hills and sheep, in fact when I recall the last Tibb thread on what is outside your window no one replied with "dread and fear"

"And there is death in every tear" -again I am not sure what that means either.

And the logo shows the whole of Africa - that is a bit nasty to 90% of the rest of Africa that is Ebola free.

How do you feel about all this?

http://www.humanosphere.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/band-aid-30.jpg

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2550852/One-Direction-set-earn-billion-dollars-just-12-months-world-tour.html

http://www.therichest.com/celebnetworth/celeb/rockstars/u2-net-worth/

[Crimson Dynamo]

There are 3 times as many Christians in Nigeria than in England and Wales


So One imagines that they in fact Do know its Christmas time....


(Thank you Radio 2 for that stat)

[Livia]

Well, the window thing... the celebrities are obviously trying to open our eyes to the real world because we live such cosseted lives, with people giving us free stuff and lackeys to run around catering to our every whim so we obviously don't comprehend the hardships that go on in the real world. Oh no hang on... that's them.

[Nedusa]

I feel sorry for all the poor African people who now have Ebola to contend with.

Thanks to Sir Bob as we all know his efforts in putting together the original Band Aid and then Live Aid pretty much eradicated ALL hunger and poverty in Africa.

But now with nasty Ebola on the rise there I guess he will raise enough money through this amazing single to eradicate Ebola from Africa.

Thank God for Sir Bob doing the jobs ALL Govt's simply cannot get done.

I think Sir Bob should get another Knighthood for his efforts and we can start calling him Sir Sir Bob or Sir squared Bob....maybe even offer to cut his distinguished locks.

Whatta Guy....................

[Josy]

I feel you are thinking to much into one sentence of the song tbh and lucky you, that you see something nice when you look out of a window but not everyone does, I'm not just talking about disease and famine either, no one knows what kind of hardships are waiting round the corner for them.

The celebs are trying to encourage people to help in any way they can, it's a very bad day when acts of kindness like that get looked down upon IMHO.

[Josy]

Also

And there is death in every tear

This is referring to the way the virus can be carried. The relatives of people that have the virus can't touch them, clean them, wipe their tears and so on because of the risks of catching the disease.

[Niamh.]

I feel you are thinking to much into one sentence of the song tbh and lucky you, that you see something nice when you look out of a window but not everyone does, I'm not just talking about disease and famine either, no one knows what kind of hardships are waiting round the corner for them.

The celebs are trying to encourage people to help in any way they can, it's a very bad day when acts of kindness like that get looked down upon IMHO.

I know, what the hell is wrong with people?

[Crimson Dynamo]

I feel you are thinking to much into one sentence of the song tbh and lucky you, that you see something nice when you look out of a window but not everyone does, I'm not just talking about disease and famine either, no one knows what kind of hardships are waiting round the corner for them.

The celebs are trying to encourage people to help in any way they can, it's a very bad day when acts of kindness like that get looked down upon IMHO.

I think people are just fed up with groups like Bono (net worth of U2 £800,000,000) asking folk for money for issues that we already contribute to via taxes.

[Crimson Dynamo]

I feel you are thinking to much into one sentence of the song tbh and lucky you, that you see something nice when you look out of a window but not everyone does, I'm not just talking about disease and famine either, no one knows what kind of hardships are waiting round the corner for them.

The celebs are trying to encourage people to help in any way they can, it's a very bad day when acts of kindness like that get looked down upon IMHO.

Yes, I guess especially the 20,000 old aged UK pensioners who will die this year from being cold as they cant afford to heat their homes.

[Josy]

Yes, I guess especially the 20,000 old aged UK pensioners who will die this year from being cold as they cant afford to heat their homes.

And money gets raised through charities for that sort of thing too, as well as the food donations and so on...they also receive cold weather payments.

[Josy]

I know, what the hell is wrong with people?

It's crazy eh? if you don't want to donate to a certain cause then don't do it, no one is being forced fgs.

[Crimson Dynamo]

And money gets raised through charities for that sort of thing too, as well as the food donations and so on...they also receive cold weather payments.

but so they get anywhere near the publicity?

[Josy]

but so they get anywhere near the publicity?

Age UK is one of the largest well known charities and they talk about the effects of winter on the elderly a lot so I would say yeah.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Age UK is one of the largest well known charities and they talk about the effects of winter on the elderly a lot so I would say yeah.

I doubt they made it on every news channel, every newspaper, every news website and and nearly all radio stations however....


:idc:

[MTVN]

Well the fact is that there are dozens of worthwhile causes, it's unrealistic to expect them all to receive equal attention. That's just self-evident really.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Well the fact is that there are dozens of worthwhile causes, it's unrealistic to expect them all to receive equal attention. That's just self-evident really.

quite

I have found it difficult to get my Charity for tall blonde lipstick- lesbians with large breasts "Strapadicktomy UK" off the ground and its idiots like Gandalf and his celeb pals that are making it more difficult:fist:

In fact it would not have even got past the initial round of fund raising without a sizeable donation from Ninastar...

https://img1.etsystatic.com/014/0/7004945/il_340x270.467173931_jx3v.jpg

[Josy]

I doubt they made it on every news channel, every newspaper, every news website and and nearly all radio stations however....


:idc:

I'm sure they do :think:

[Niamh.]

No good deed goes unpunished eh?

[Northern Monkey]

The tear thing is what apparently inspired him to rerelease the song.An African nurse died after wiping a childs tear away
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2836224/Bob-Geldof-Baby-s-tear-killed-nurse-West-Africa-tragic-inspiration-new-Band-Aid-single.html

[Crimson Dynamo]

The tear thing is what apparently inspired him to rerelease the song.An African nurse died after wiping a childs tear away
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2836224/Bob-Geldof-Baby-s-tear-killed-nurse-West-Africa-tragic-inspiration-new-Band-Aid-single.html

So, without sounding heartless, its was death from one tear, it has been claimed

and I doubt that was proven, it sounds anecdotal at best

[Northern Monkey]

So, without sounding heartless, its was death from one tear, it has been claimed

and I doubt that was proven, it sounds anecdotal at best

Yeah she probs got vommed on too or something.

[Tom4784]

Band Aid as a whole is just a patronising platform for Bob Geldof to get attention and to slate anyone who has the audacity to not want to stroke his ego. I'd rather donate directly to the charities and cut out the self obsessed middleman.

[Livia]

Band Aid as a whole is just a patronising platform for Bob Geldof to get attention and to slate anyone who has the audacity to not want to stroke his ego. I'd rather donate directly to the charities and cut out the self obsessed middleman.

I agree. I give to Medecins Sans Frontieres regularly anyway, as well as contributing through tax to the massive effort the UK has put into helping alleviate this crisis. I'm sure lots of people have given to all kinds of charities for this cause. I don't need Harry Styles & Co warbling to remind me that there's a world outside my window. I know there is, and so do most people. And furthermore, Bob Geldof hasn't done too badly out of the whole Live Aid/Band Aid thing, without it he would just be the frontman of a pretty average band who had a couple of hits in the 80s and not the demigod he has become. There are plenty of people working their backsides off for charity for their whole lives without ever reaping the kind of rewards or getting the recognition Bob Geldof has enjoyed. If people want to buy the record, good for them. I won't be buying it though.

[kirklancaster]

I feel you are thinking to much into one sentence of the song tbh and lucky you, that you see something nice when you look out of a window but not everyone does, I'm not just talking about disease and famine either, no one knows what kind of hardships are waiting round the corner for them.

The celebs are trying to encourage people to help in any way they can, it's a very bad day when acts of kindness like that get looked down upon IMHO.

Couldn't have put it better. :clap1::clap1::clap1:

[Marsh.]

So, without sounding heartless, its was death from one tear, it has been claimed

and I doubt that was proven, it sounds anecdotal at best

Ffs. :joker:

[Marsh.]

Band Aid as a whole is just a patronising platform for Bob Geldof to get attention and to slate anyone who has the audacity to not want to stroke his ego. I'd rather donate directly to the charities and cut out the self obsessed middleman.

Yet isn't that the point of these campaigns? To draw people's attention to these causes that wouldn't receive as many donations unless this "middleman" helped publicise them?

[Toy Soldier]

Band Aid as a whole is just a patronising platform for Bob Geldof to get attention and to slate anyone who has the audacity to not want to stroke his ego. I'd rather donate directly to the charities and cut out the self obsessed middleman.

I completely agree. I literally cannot stand Geldof, and he's only getting worse over time. Also, this is what he had to say of Adele for not playing along with his little celeb circle-wank:

“Adele is doing nothing,” said Geldof at the weekend. “She’s not answering the phone… she’s not writing. She’s not recording. She doesn’t want to be bothered by anyone. She won’t pick up the phone to her manager. She’s bringing up a family, you know.”

:facepalm:... Yes Bob. She's raising a family. Awful, isn't it? Who does she think she is?? Maybe she should spend a little less time raising her family and a little more time inflating her own ego to the point of overblown messiah complex, until said family ends up so miserable that they end up killing themselves with a massive heroin overdose. Like a PROPER celebrity family, goshdarnit!!

[Livia]

Yet isn't that the point of these campaigns? To draw people's attention to these causes that wouldn't receive as many donations unless this "middleman" helped publicise them?

Don't you find it a little patronising to have some pop stars remind people that there's a world outside your window? Before they bugger off back to their sprawling Hampstead pad or their penthouse, their limo swooping past elderly people eeking out a living, hospitals that are busy shaking tin cups for cash and homeless people living on the street, of course... but they're not quite so headline-grabbing right now. It's less Band Aid and more Band Waggon if you as me.

[Livia]

I completely agree. I literally cannot stand Geldof, and he's only getting worse over time. Also, this is what he had to say of Adele for not playing along with his little celeb circle-wank:



:facepalm:... Yes Bob. She's raising a family. Awful, isn't it? Who does she think she is?? Maybe she should spend a little less time raising her family and a little more time inflating her own ego to the point of overblown messiah complex, until said family ends up so miserable that they end up killing themselves with a massive heroin overdose. Like a PROPER celebrity family, goshdarnit!!

Lovin' your work, TS.

[kirklancaster]

Yes, I guess especially the 20,000 old aged UK pensioners who will die this year from being cold as they cant afford to heat their homes.

This is one of the richest countries in the world, and while the particular problem you highlight is immensely regrettable, the sad fact is, that it's the effect of many, many, causes - of which, the unequal distribution of wealth, insufficient Government action, the unfettered greed of the utility companies, and the lack of forward planning by certain of the old people in question, are just some of them.

As already pointed out by other FM's, however, some preventative, remedial, and compensatory, policies are in place to alleviate - though sadly not eradicate - the problem of OAP's struggling to stay warm in this country each Winter, and I cannot fathom how this problem has any bearing on whether people in a democracy should elect to donate to a given charity or not?

I personally respect Bob Geldorf and what he has done for charity over the years. I do not see any cynical motives in either the man's reason for continuing to capitalise on his - still valid - celebrity status to benefit good causes, nor in the re-written lyrics of the Band Aid single, and I think it's both pedantic and petty for people to find fault with either.

Spoiled, immature, selfish brat 'pop stars' receive less flak for punching press photographers and fans, wrecking hotel rooms in drug-fueled frenzies, and inciting illegal rebellion in impressionable kids, than this quiet, polite, and thoroughly decent man receives because he tries to make this sick, saddo, fecked up world, a little bit of a better place to live in.

I'm baffled.

[Marsh.]

Don't you find it a little patronising to have some pop stars remind people that there's a world outside your window? Before they bugger off back to their sprawling Hampstead pad or their penthouse, their limo swooping past elderly people eeking out a living, hospitals that are busy shaking tin cups for cash and homeless people living on the street, of course... but they're not quite so headline-grabbing right now. It's less Band Aid and more Band Waggon if you as me.

Of course it is to some degree.

But then it's all about perspective. Me doing things to raise money for one cause and then slinking back to my comfortable life in my house with heating, food, drink, clothes, luxuries etc whilst thousands of people are sleeping on the streets is also unfair. But that's life.

I don't see it as the pop stars preaching to us, but about "us" as in everyone. I'm sure many, if not all, of these participants do their own bit for charity.

[Marsh.]

:facepalm:... Yes Bob. She's raising a family. Awful, isn't it? Who does she think she is?? Maybe she should spend a little less time raising her family and a little more time inflating her own ego to the point of overblown messiah complex, until said family ends up so miserable that they end up killing themselves with a massive heroin overdose. Like a PROPER celebrity family, goshdarnit!!

Comments taken out of context. In his TV interview he did for the news he spoke about how she wasn't even contacted by him.

It was the media twisting his words to sound like something else.

But you trying to demonise the man for his good causes whilst simultaneously coming out with that line in bold is amusing.

[kirklancaster]

I feel sorry for all the poor African people who now have Ebola to contend with.

Thanks to Sir Bob as we all know his efforts in putting together the original Band Aid and then Live Aid pretty much eradicated ALL hunger and poverty in Africa.

But now with nasty Ebola on the rise there I guess he will raise enough money through this amazing single to eradicate Ebola from Africa.

Thank God for Sir Bob doing the jobs ALL Govt's simply cannot get done.

I think Sir Bob should get another Knighthood for his efforts and we can start calling him Sir Sir Bob or Sir squared Bob....maybe even offer to cut his distinguished locks.

Whatta Guy....................

:clap1::clap1::clap1:

[kirklancaster]

Of course it is to some degree.

But then it's all about perspective. Me doing things to raise money for one cause and then slinking back to my comfortable life in my house with heating, food, drink, clothes, luxuries etc whilst thousands of people are sleeping on the streets is also unfair. But that's life.

I don't see it as the pop stars preaching to us, but about "us" as in everyone. I'm sure many, if not all, of these participants do their own bit for charity.

Well said Marsh - all poverty and hardship is relative, unfair, but a very real fact of life.

As to the emboldened bit - when I was younger, I cynically questioned why multi-millionaire 'stars' didn't just bung in a million each from their own pockets, but as I've read more things about just this subject over the years, I know that they do give a hell of a lot to good causes - most of it in private.

[Niamh.]

I completely agree. I literally cannot stand Geldof, and he's only getting worse over time. Also, this is what he had to say of Adele for not playing along with his little celeb circle-wank:







:facepalm:... Yes Bob. She's raising a family. Awful, isn't it? Who does she think she is?? Maybe she should spend a little less time raising her family and a little more time inflating her own ego to the point of overblown messiah complex, until said family ends up so miserable that they end up killing themselves with a massive heroin overdose. Like a PROPER celebrity family, goshdarnit!!


Jeez what a rotten thing to say :bored:

[Livia]

Of course it is to some degree.

But then it's all about perspective. Me doing things to raise money for one cause and then slinking back to my comfortable life in my house with heating, food, drink, clothes, luxuries etc whilst thousands of people are sleeping on the streets is also unfair. But that's life.

I don't see it as the pop stars preaching to us, but about "us" as in everyone. I'm sure many, if not all, of these participants do their own bit for charity.

I support several charities regularly, and I certainly don't "slink back" to my comfortable house. I'm proud of the charities I support, and if I didn't work hard I wouldn't be able to support them - most of them in the UK but not exclusively. And the UK gives billions in foreign aid. Look at what we've done for the ebola crisis already! bundles of cash in foreign aid, charitable donations, a Royal Navy ship, loads of medics, doctors and nurses... and yet every time I see Geldof he's insinuating - and sometimes just coming out and saying - that we're not doing enough. I guess it's not so much the song that gets on my pecs, it's the unrelenting self-righteousness of Saint Bob. Well, he's preaching to the converted in many cases. Make your record Bob, sell it and shut up.

[Jake.]

At the end of the day, it's raising a bit of money for a good cause. If you agree with it, buy the single.. And if you don't, donate elsewhere if you wish :shrug:

[Marsh.]

I support several charities regularly, and I certainly don't "slink back" to my comfortable house. I'm proud of the charities I support, and if I didn't work hard I wouldn't be able to support them - most of them in the UK but not exclusively. And the UK gives billions in foreign aid. Look at what we've done for the ebola crisis already! bundles of cash in foreign aid, charitable donations, a Royal Navy ship, loads of medics, doctors and nurses... and yet every time I see Geldof he's insinuating - and sometimes just coming out and saying - that we're not doing enough. I guess it's not so much the song that gets on my pecs, it's the unrelenting self-righteousness of Saint Bob. Well, he's preaching to the converted in many cases. Make your record Bob, sell it and shut up.

I do see where you're coming from. I don't see it as him insinuating that we're not doing enough, simply that more is needed. Which is something that will always be the case. No matter how much is given to charity, more will always be needed. There's always somebody/something in need.

I just think some of the reactions in this thread about a man doing his charity projects are OTT. As Jake says, you can either donate to it, or ignore it. Overall, what he's doing is more good than bad.

[kirklancaster]

:facepalm:... Yes Bob. She's raising a family. Awful, isn't it? Who does she think she is?? Maybe she should spend a little less time raising her family and a little more time inflating her own ego to the point of overblown messiah complex, until said family ends up so miserable that they end up killing themselves with a massive heroin overdose. Like a PROPER celebrity family, goshdarnit!!

Come on T.S. - we can be the best parents in the world but we cannot 'police' our kids for the rest of our lives, to ensure that they only make 'good' choices once they have grown up.

Geldorf blaming himself for his daughter's drug overdose is the natural reaction of any grief-stricken parent who loses a child - 'I could have done more' 'I have failed as a parent' etc. In truth, his daughter was 25 and living her own life away from Bob, and on top of the fact that 'celebrity' lifestyles are often far-removed from those of 'ordinary' people, and crazy and decadent by comparison, is the very real fact, that to some degree, Peaches' fate was preordained because of her genetic inheritance from her mother Paula - herself a neurosis riddled, psychologically fragile, emotionally disturbed tragic character.

By all accounts Bob was not responsible for his daughter's heroin addiction, any more than he was for Paula's drug abuse, or promiscuity, and he did his utmost to try to get both to come off drugs.

I really don't think this poor guy deserves to be slated because two members of his family died so tragically, because both were linked, and both were not of his doing.

[Kizzy]

Comments taken out of context. In his TV interview he did for the news he spoke about how she wasn't even contacted by him.

It was the media twisting his words to sound like something else.

But you trying to demonise the man for his good causes whilst simultaneously coming out with that line in bold is amusing.

I want to vomit every time I see something like that written down, slurs about what happened to his daughter brought into a debate about raising funds to fight ebola... urgh.

Nobody want's ebola to spread but are not forward thinking enough to see this as a practical solution, as said nobody is twisting anyones arm to get them to buy it are they?

[Shaun]

#TeamAdele

[Tom4784]

Yet isn't that the point of these campaigns? To draw people's attention to these causes that wouldn't receive as many donations unless this "middleman" helped publicise them?

I don't think the Ebola epidemic needs any help when it comes to gaining attention or raising awareness, Bob's just using it as an excuse to lord it over everyone again.

[Kizzy]

I don't think the Ebola epidemic needs any help when it comes to gaining attention or raising awareness, Bob's just using it as an excuse to lord it over everyone again.

So every decade he feels compelled to fight for a cause to inflate his ego?

[Tom4784]

So every decade he feels compelled to fight for a cause to inflate his ego?

Pretty much.

[Kizzy]

Pretty much.

Doesn't sound that logical really does it?

[Tom4784]

Doesn't sound that logical really does it?

It's very logical, he's an egomaniac that's gained massive amounts of exposure through Band Aid. It's no wonder he keeps doing it.

[Kizzy]

It's very logical, he's an egomaniac that's gained massive amounts of exposure through Band Aid. It's no wonder he keeps doing it.

If he truly was an egomaniac there would be 1001 easier ways of gaining exposure though.

[Marsh.]

He does it for the exposure? :think:

Proof?

If he was a fame-***** there are more immediate ways of gaining that as evidenced by the hundreds of tabloid/TV fodder the last few years.

But hey, how dare the guy try to use celebrity to raise money for positive things. Why doesn't he bugger off and spend his time partying or holidaying around the globe.

[Tom4784]

If he truly was an egomaniac there would be 1001 easier ways of gaining exposure though.

Millions probably but he's found his niche and he's sticking to it.

[Jake.]

Why doesn't he bugger off and spend his time partying or holidaying around the globe.

me when I'm famous

[Cherie]

Some of the comments in this thread :shrug: so Bob Geldof wanted to do use his contacts and his profile to raise money to stop an deadly disease, and he is demonised for it? Yes it is a bunch of celebs singing, but in the main a bunch of celebs who really don't need any extra publicity right now, Bono, Ed Sheeran, ID actually got out of their beds on a gloomy November afternoon to come together to record the song, yes we all give to charity in some way shape or form, but do we get off our arses to actually do anything, I don't, so I can't say I am in a position to criticise people who do whatever their status in life, and as for people dragging Peaches into the debate...really, people grief in different ways, maybe this is Bob's way, by throwing himself into a project? Buy the song don't buy the song, we are lucky we have a choice.

[Josy]

I completely agree. I literally cannot stand Geldof, and he's only getting worse over time. Also, this is what he had to say of Adele for not playing along with his little celeb circle-wank:



:facepalm:... Yes Bob. She's raising a family. Awful, isn't it? Who does she think she is?? Maybe she should spend a little less time raising her family and a little more time inflating her own ego to the point of overblown messiah complex, until said family ends up so miserable that they end up killing themselves with a massive heroin overdose. Like a PROPER celebrity family, goshdarnit!!

Disgusting comment.

[Josy]

Some of the comments in this thread :shrug: so Bob Geldof wanted to do use his contacts and his profile to raise money to stop an deadly disease, and he is demonised for it? Yes it is a bunch of celebs singing, but in the main a bunch of celebs who really don't need any extra publicity right now, Bono, Ed Sheeran, ID actually got out of their beds on a gloomy November afternoon to come together to record the song, yes we all give to charity in some way shape or form, but do we get off our arses to actually do anything, I don't, so I can't say I am in a position to criticise people who do whatever their status in life, and as for people dragging Peaches into the debate...really, people grief in different ways, maybe this is Bob's way, by throwing himself into a project? Buy the song don't buy the song, we are lucky we have a choice.

Great post Cherie.

[joeysteele]

Well anyone who can get this Chancellor to forego the tax on a project is doing pretty good for me.

I do,I admit find Bob Geldof annoying at times but I think from all I have heard from the time,as I wasn't born then, that the first 'Band Aid' record and concert was an amazing project that not only raised massive funds but was greatly entertaining for the masses too.

This project now I also agree with him on, no one really knows for sure where ebola will get to or how bad it could get.
Music is a major way to reach masses of people and despite all that has so far been done,it is still a possible threat worldwide.
So all the help and projects that can be done to raise more funding can only be a welcome and good thing.

I won't really go into his Daughter,as a Parent, he will be tormented likely at what happened to her,going through all sorts of emotions.

He can come across as arrogant and demanding but he clearly believes in some causes so sets out to do what he can.
He does seem to have the knack of being able to bring musicians into his projects such as this with ease.
So well done to him and I am glad it is being so strongly supported too.

It is easy to criticise those who organise and plan projects to help with causes or emergencies that arise at any time but as someone said, buy the recording and support it or choose to avoid the whole process,that is everyones right to do.

I doubt I could ever organise and set up something like this that will bring in loads of voluntary funding for anything and although I don't greatly care for Bob Geldof,I will always give him credit for his efforts on this and other things he has done in the past too.

[Toy Soldier]

Jeez what a rotten thing to say :bored:

Yes. It is rotten. I'm not saying the man isn't in horrendous pain over the death of his daughter - you only have to look at him to know that.

But, anyone who believes that Peaches' heroin problem - and her mother's heroin problem, for that matter - was not at least partly (in reality, largely) a product of Mr Geldof's narcissism is not being pragmatic. It's obvious and typical. The children of SO MANY celebrities grow up to have serious personal issues. Are we supposed to simply put that down to coincidence? It isn't. And Bob's comments to Adele prove this. He sneeringly and sarcastically suggested that she was being irresponsible for putting "her family, don't you know" ahead of what the thinks is an all-important celebrity crusade. This confirms what anyone who has observed Band Aid over the last few decades must already suspect: that Mr Geldof has put his status, his celebrity, and his crusades in Africa ahead of his family and that there have been tragic consequences.

Ignore it if you please, call me disgusting for saying so if you will (I must have forgotten that he still has his "recently deceased family member" invincibility status buff active and is therefore immune to criticism for at least 5 years) but let it be known that I refuse to be patronized by a raging ****ing hypocrite. Or an entire group of them with microphones, for that matter.

[Toy Soldier]

He does seem to have the knack of being able to bring musicians into his projects such as this with ease.

Have you read about what happened with Adele, Joey? He contacted her for this and she politely declined and made a separate (large) donation... so he went to the press shaming her for it, making her out to be irresponsible and selfish.

That is his "knack" - guilting people into doing these things for him by slandering their public image by painting them as uncaring and uncharitable if they don't immediately jump at the chance to be a part of his "projects". We could all have the same "knack", if we cared to be bullying *******s. Could we not?

[Niamh.]

Some of the comments in this thread :shrug: so Bob Geldof wanted to do use his contacts and his profile to raise money to stop an deadly disease, and he is demonised for it? Yes it is a bunch of celebs singing, but in the main a bunch of celebs who really don't need any extra publicity right now, Bono, Ed Sheeran, ID actually got out of their beds on a gloomy November afternoon to come together to record the song, yes we all give to charity in some way shape or form, but do we get off our arses to actually do anything, I don't, so I can't say I am in a position to criticise people who do whatever their status in life, and as for people dragging Peaches into the debate...really, people grief in different ways, maybe this is Bob's way, by throwing himself into a project? Buy the song don't buy the song, we are lucky we have a choice.

:clap1:

[Cherie]

Have you read about what happened with Adele, Joey? He contacted her for this and she politely declined and made a separate (large) donation... so he went to the press shaming her for it, making her out to be irresponsible and selfish.

That is his "knack" - guilting people into doing these things for him by slandering their public image by painting them as uncaring and uncharitable if they don't immediately jump at the chance to be a part of his "projects". We could all have the same "knack", if we cared to be bullying *******s. Could we not?

Have you not read Marsh's post on this :suspect: and followed up with a simple google search to confirm if this malicious report that you are spreading is true?

http://news.sky.com/story/1374910/bob-geldof-denies-adele-band-aid-song-snub

Bob Geldof has told Sky News that reports Adele snubbed the recording of the new Band Aid 30 single are "complete nonsense".

It had been claimed that the singer had been approached about appearing on Do They Know It's Christmas? alongside a host of other huge music stars but was a no-show.

Geldof said rumours he had phoned her 100 times were totally untrue: "I didn't call Adele at all because I don't have her number.

"There is no snub. I am only aware of this this morning, it's nonsense. Complete nonsense."

Geldof also used some colourful language to express his opinion about those who have criticised Band Aid's legacy and the musicians involved.

[Niamh.]

I'm actually astounded that people are getting so up in arms about a person wanting to do something for charity, I swear you can't do right for doing wrong sometimes

TS I'm seriously not going to get into a debate with you on whether Bob Geldof was responsible for his ex wife and daughters drug addiction, it's revolting how you can come to that conclusion when you don't have a clue about his personal life. And anyway how could anyone be blamed for another adults poor choices?

[Crimson Dynamo]

Its the fact that not only do we give hundreds of millions to Africa but we have also done more this year than any nation to help with money, supplies and people. Its 3 small african countries that have no proper sweage system, are backward and superstitious and have poor infrastructure.

This assuaging ones concious vanity project is misguided and patronising

[Niamh.]

Its the fact that not only do we give hundreds of millions to Africa but we have also done more this year than any nation to help with money, supplies and people. Its 3 small african countries that have no proper sweage system, are backward and superstitious and have poor infrastructure.

This assuaging ones concious vanity project is misguided and patronising

so don't buy the single if you're that cynical :shrug:

[Toy Soldier]

I'm actually astounded that people are getting so up in arms about a person wanting to do something for charity, I swear you can't do right for doing wrong sometimes

TS I'm seriously not going to get into a debate with you on whether Bob Geldof was responsible for his ex wife and daughters drug addiction, it's revolting how you can come to that conclusion when you don't have a clue about his personal life. And anyway how could anyone be blamed for another adults poor choices?

I have plenty of admiration for charitable people and have done charitable work myself. It winds me up when people pretend to be altruistic when in fact they are all about vanity and pride.

Whether or not he can in fact "save Africa with his buddies" remains to be seen. Seems unlikely, but whatever. Maybe it will help, and at least that would be a positive side-effect of his constant self promotion. But let's not pretend he is a philanthropist. He is a narcissist, and his quest has little to do with anyone but himself.

[Toy Soldier]

Have you not read Marsh's post on this :suspect: and followed up with a simple google search to confirm if this malicious report that you are spreading is true?

http://news.sky.com/story/1374910/bob-geldof-denies-adele-band-aid-song-snub

Bob Geldof has told Sky News that reports Adele snubbed the recording of the new Band Aid 30 single are "complete nonsense".

It had been claimed that the singer had been approached about appearing on Do They Know It's Christmas? alongside a host of other huge music stars but was a no-show.

Geldof said rumours he had phoned her 100 times were totally untrue: "I didn't call Adele at all because I don't have her number.

"There is no snub. I am only aware of this this morning, it's nonsense. Complete nonsense."

Geldof also used some colourful language to express his opinion about those who have criticised Band Aid's legacy and the musicians involved.

Oh sorry, I didn't realise that Marsh said that Google said that Bob Geldof said that Bob Geldof didn't say he had a problem with Adele not taking part. If Bob Geldof said that Bob Geldof is nice then I guess he must be. Because Bob Geldof also said that Bob Geldof always tells the truth.

Infallible.

[Cherie]

Oh sorry, I didn't realise that Marsh said that Google said that Bob Geldof said that Bob Geldof didn't say he had a problem with Adele not taking part. If Bob Geldof said that Bob Geldof is nice then I guess he must be. Because Bob Geldof also said that Bob Geldof always tells the truth.

Infallible.

Excuse me? I have put in a link from a reputable source! yes of course Bob Geldof might have lied but there is no proof to say he did unless you have a link confirming that it happened? can you link to your source please?

[Cherie]

I have plenty of admiration for charitable people and have done charitable work myself. It winds me up when people pretend to be altruistic when in fact they are all about vanity and pride.

Whether or not he can in fact "save Africa with his buddies" remains to be seen. Seems unlikely, but whatever. Maybe it will help, and at least that would be a positive side-effect of his constant self promotion. But let's not pretend he is a philanthropist. He is a narcissist, and his quest has little to do with anyone but himself.



says you? :idc:

[Toy Soldier]

Excuse me? I have put in a link from a reputable source! yes of course Bob Geldof might have lied but there is no proof to say he did unless you have a link confirming that it happened? can you link to your source please?
My point is that your entire evidence for Bob Geldof not having underhand methods is that Bod Geldof says that Bob Geldof doesn't have underhand methods. His methods are obvious. I never claimed that he "called her 100 times", I pointed out that he made flippant comments about her being "too busy with family to attend" (his obvious implication being that she should of course place his Ebola crusade in a place of prime importance). If you want evidence that he believes that his crusade is indeed of supreme importance, or that he is likely to use shaming and guilt tactics to gain compliance... I can give you a first hand source. Simply watch Sunday nights x factor.

If you want evidence that it works simply reread this thread where 90% of people wish him deemed beyond criticism because he duz charity and savez Africinz so he is nice.

He's never once included an African musician in one of these videos. He's never once attempted to include anyone from any of the Africa-based organisations that are working every day to help their countries. He very clearly wants his own face and brand plastered all over this charade every time he does it, despite COUNTLESS African scholars pointing out that these things all too often are making things worse. He does this for selfish reasons and because he gets off on feeling like a superhero, and because it's sustained him for three decades.

I don't think that's OK. And I don't think that those of us who don't think it's OK should be shouted down as disgusting or uncharitable for not supporting his masterbatory acts of mass "charity".

Plus... He's not going to cure ****ing Ebola.

[Crimson Dynamo]

so don't buy the single if you're that cynical :shrug:

Thats is factual and not cynicism.

Geldof is using mawkisk misguided popularism to misinform and exploit

[Nedusa]

My point is that your entire evidence for Bob Geldof not having underhand methods is that Bod Geldof says that Bob Geldof doesn't have underhand methods. His methods are obvious. I never claimed that he "called her 100 times", I pointed out that he made flippant comments about her being "too busy with family to attend" (his obvious implication being that she should of course place his Ebola crusade in a place of prime importance). If you want evidence that he believes that his crusade is indeed of supreme importance, or that he is likely to use shaming and guilt tactics to gain compliance... I can give you a first hand source. Simply watch Sunday nights x factor.

If you want evidence that it works simply reread this thread where 90% of people wish him deemed beyond criticism because he duz charity and savez Africinz so he is nice.

He's never once included an African musician in one of these videos. He's never once attempted to include anyone from any of the Africa-based organisations that are working every day to help their countries. He very clearly wants his own face and brand plastered all over this charade every time he does it, despite COUNTLESS African scholars pointing out that these things all too often are making things worse. He does this for selfish reasons and because he gets off on feeling like a superhero, and because it's sustained him for three decades.

I don't think that's OK. And I don't think that those of us who don't think it's OK should be shouted down as disgusting or uncharitable for not supporting his masterbatory acts of mass "charity".

Plus... He's not going to cure ****ing Ebola.

Wow......the gloves are certainly coming off now.


:fist::fist::fist:

[Tom4784]

I'm actually astounded that people are getting so up in arms about a person wanting to do something for charity, I swear you can't do right for doing wrong sometimes

TS I'm seriously not going to get into a debate with you on whether Bob Geldof was responsible for his ex wife and daughters drug addiction, it's revolting how you can come to that conclusion when you don't have a clue about his personal life. And anyway how could anyone be blamed for another adults poor choices?

He's not doing it for charity though, it's a vanity project. If he had truly altruistic intentions he wouldn't put himself front and center of it all, making himself out to be a Saint when in fact he's profiting heavily by raising his own profile. If he really wanted to help he could have just highlighted the charities and make an appeal to raise donations instead.

Charity singles are cynical things and it's not really charity if the person doing it is also benefiting from it, it's why I refuse to support them. Even if I did I can't support a song that's so patronising and ignorant.

[Cherie]

My point is that your entire evidence for Bob Geldof not having underhand methods is that Bod Geldof says that Bob Geldof doesn't have underhand methods. His methods are obvious. I never claimed that he "called her 100 times", I pointed out that he made flippant comments about her being "too busy with family to attend" (his obvious implication being that she should of course place his Ebola crusade in a place of prime importance). If you want evidence that he believes that his crusade is indeed of supreme importance, or that he is likely to use shaming and guilt tactics to gain compliance... I can give you a first hand source. Simply watch Sunday nights x factor.

If you want evidence that it works simply reread this thread where 90% of people wish him deemed beyond criticism because he duz charity and savez Africinz so he is nice.

He's never once included an African musician in one of these videos. He's never once attempted to include anyone from any of the Africa-based organisations that are working every day to help their countries. He very clearly wants his own face and brand plastered all over this charade every time he does it, despite COUNTLESS African scholars pointing out that these things all too often are making things worse. He does this for selfish reasons and because he gets off on feeling like a superhero, and because it's sustained him for three decades.

I don't think that's OK. And I don't think that those of us who don't think it's OK should be shouted down as disgusting or uncharitable for not supporting his masterbatory acts of mass "charity".

Plus... He's not going to cure ****ing Ebola.

I never claimed you said he called her "100 times", you said

"Have you read about what happened with Adele, Joey? He contacted her for this and she politely declined and made a separate (large) donation... so he went to the press shaming her for it, making her out to be irresponsible and selfish"

so presumably you have a link to where you read it but so far have failed to post it

I watched Sunday nights Xfactor and would argue that he was trying to shock people out of their apathy and it's not on our doorstep attitude.

I've not heard any African Scholars say that donating towards hospitals, equipment, education in fighting Ebola is going to make things worse, again a link would be appreciated.

and finally

No he is not going to cure Ebola, but he is trying to do something to help cure it and I for one don't have a problem with that

[Liam-]

If he wants to work on a project to help him through the loss of his daughter and make money for a good cause at the same time, then good on him.. but i won't buy the single because I refuse to give money towards anything with that mans name plastered all over it, Instead of buying the single and inflating his ego even more so than it already is, I'd rather give money straight to the cause, or some other charity that i have more knowledge of where the money is going to go.

[kirklancaster]

Its the fact that not only do we give hundreds of millions to Africa but we have also done more this year than any nation to help with money, supplies and people. Its 3 small african countries that have no proper sweage system, are backward and superstitious and have poor infrastructure.

This assuaging ones concious vanity project is misguided and patronising

The 'causal' points you are making to seemingly justify your argument against Bob Geldorf's latest charity efforts, are some of the very issues which he is hoping to address with the proceeds of his efforts.

The Great Fire which decimated London in 1666, the Black Death which decimated Europe in 1348 and the 1918 'Spanish' Flue Epidemic which killed millions of people, all had 'causes'. 'Causes' which - had they been correctly addressed at the time - would have prevented a great percentage of the catastrophic results of such disasters.

This is all that Geldorf is trying to do - address the causes of the virus in order to prevent its spread, and reduce its devastating effects.

It may well be true, that "we give hundreds of millions to Africa" and that "we have also done more this year than any nation to help with money, supplies and people." - but it is obviously not enough, because not only is the epidemic still spreading, but the atrocious environmental conditions which facilitate the eruption and spread of Ebola are - as you, yourself point out - still largely unchanged.

This being so, how can anyone legitimately criticise this poor guy for at least trying to address this world threatening problem?

As for this being his 'vanity project' - what a load of baloney.

If Bob was the self-seeking egotist he is being made out to be on here, then he would be on every chat show, every comedy panel show, in the CBB house and in the Jungle as a 'I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here'.

Geldorf is a thoroughly decent, caring and sincere human being who is a very private person in real life, and like Bono, Midge Ure and others, he utilises his still valid celebrity status - not for his own benefit in the ways mentioned above - but fot the benefit of millions of other human beings who sadly live pathetically, dreadful existences in sub-human conditions.

What's more, the sooner this terrible virus is conquered, the safer every last one of us will be, because, in a world of jet travel, it is ludicrous to smugly believe that it is only "3 small african countries" so distance precludes any threat to us.

And finally, not only have we all the great good fortune to have enough in our pocket to buy the record if we want to, we are also able to simply not buy it if we don't want to, and that's all there is to it really, isn't it?

[Toy Soldier]

He's not doing it for charity though, it's a vanity project. If he had truly altruistic intentions he wouldn't put himself front and center of it all, making himself out to be a Saint when in fact he's profiting heavily by raising his own profile. If he really wanted to help he could have just highlighted the charities and make an appeal to raise donations instead.

Charity singles are cynical things and it's not really charity if the person doing it is also benefiting from it, it's why I refuse to support them. Even if I did I can't support a song that's so patronising and ignorant.

Exactly. I think when people are looking at Geldof and not understanding that he has, at least, many and varied motives when he makes his "impassioned speeches" they can't possibly be taking into account the amount of money he has made from Band Aud. He would be penniless by now with out it (he was never particularly talented) but instead, he still has an absolutely gargantuan profile. He has exploited African nations to do this. The fact that he has accidentally done some good in the process - maybe - does not absolve him of this. The man is a vulture.

Which leads me into what I said before about African scholars suggesting he makes things worse:

He has these fundraising campaigns seeking to raise money to ease the symptoms of the huge political problems in many parts of Africa. In doing so, he bolsters the world's negative perceptions of "dusty, poor" Africa and in the process worsens those political problems and as a knock on effect, deepens the issues that he's raising money to remedy. He wants to SAVE poor old Africa, he has absolutely no interest in EMPOWERING African people, and as such, he is a part of the problem. He is part of the very reason that African health infrastructure has not been able to contain Ebola. He's been a part of that problem since the early 80s. Good old bob.

[Kizzy]

Right so now he is responsible for ebola?... wow.

[kirklancaster]

Exactly. I think when people are looking at Geldof and not understanding that he has, at least, many and varied motives when he makes his "impassioned speeches" they can't possibly be taking into account the amount of money he has made from Band Aud. He would be penniless by now with out it (he was never particularly talented) but instead, he still has an absolutely gargantuan profile. He has exploited African nations to do this. The fact that he has accidentally done some good in the process - maybe - does not absolve him of this. The man is a vulture.

Which leads me into what I said before about African scholars suggesting he makes things worse:

He has these fundraising campaigns seeking to raise money to ease the symptoms of the huge political problems in many parts of Africa. In doing so, he bolsters the world's negative perceptions of "dusty, poor" Africa and in the process worsens those political problems and as a knock on effect, deepens the issues that he's raising money to remedy. He wants to SAVE poor old Africa, he has absolutely no interest in EMPOWERING African people, and as such, he is a part of the problem. He is part of the very reason that African health infrastructure has not been able to contain Ebola. He's been a part of that problem since the early 80s. Good old bob.

I always read your posts with relish T.S. because you 'know your onions', but I'm lost here with your views on this to be honest.

Is there any proof that Geldorf has made money from Band Aid over the past 30 years, and that he'd have been 'skint' without it?

I read somewhere once that he'd made a lot of money during the 'Boomtown Rats' heyday, and that he'd invested it wisely - including in property.

I don't understand your view that he is a 'vulture' either T.S. - how?

Finally, why do you maintain that his efforts have actually exacerbated the problems in Africa?

These are genuine questions because I have the polar opposite view of Geldorf as a person, what he is trying to achieve, and his motives for doing so - and I am therefore baffled.

[Niamh.]

He's not doing it for charity though, it's a vanity project. If he had truly altruistic intentions he wouldn't put himself front and center of it all, making himself out to be a Saint when in fact he's profiting heavily by raising his own profile. If he really wanted to help he could have just highlighted the charities and make an appeal to raise donations instead.

Charity singles are cynical things and it's not really charity if the person doing it is also benefiting from it, it's why I refuse to support them. Even if I did I can't support a song that's so patronising and ignorant.

With all due respect Dezzy you have no idea what his motivations are, you've decided that yourself for whatever reason, it doesn't make it true and why is it only proper charity if you hide your face? :laugh:

[Cherie]

Right so now he is responsible for ebola?... wow.

Time to bow out, :laugh: no links, nothing factual just an opinion, I guess he won't be buying the single, incidentally neither will I but I won't be judging those that do.

[Vicky.]

The tear thing is what apparently inspired him to rerelease the song.An African nurse died after wiping a childs tear away
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2836224/Bob-Geldof-Baby-s-tear-killed-nurse-West-Africa-tragic-inspiration-new-Band-Aid-single.html

Thats actually heartbreaking. I do think its been slightly...newspaper-ized though..I have a hard time believing a single tear could do this unless she licked the tear or something.

Its just awful to think of how these people must be feeling, especially parents who cant hold their kids or anything.

I have not bought music in about 10 years or so, as I prefer to get it free (:nono: naughty me) but I will buy this.

[Vicky.]

I completely agree. I literally cannot stand Geldof, and he's only getting worse over time. Also, this is what he had to say of Adele for not playing along with his little celeb circle-wank:



:facepalm:... Yes Bob. She's raising a family. Awful, isn't it? Who does she think she is?? Maybe she should spend a little less time raising her family and a little more time inflating her own ego to the point of overblown messiah complex, until said family ends up so miserable that they end up killing themselves with a massive heroin overdose. Like a PROPER celebrity family, goshdarnit!!Harsh :o

But Geldof was wrong to say that of Adele too mind. Not everyone needs to jump to his command. [Just read that thats false...] I appreciate the work he does for charity and such, but I really don't like the man himself. He came across as so ****ing arrogant and up his own arse on the x factor this week...trying to guilt trip us all almost.

[Toy Soldier]

Right so now he is responsible for ebola?... wow.
Massive oversimplification Kizzy. He represents, is a prime example of, rich Western attitudes towards Africa that are a PART of what keeps corrupt powers in place and keeps African infrastructure ineffective at best and nonexistent at worse. That lack of health and sanitation infrastructure is what has allowed a virus like Ebola (which is not highly contagious) to spread quickly and widely enough to become a serious issue.

[Kizzy]

I will buy it, I bought the first and played it 100s of times,we had discussions on it in school and as it had the best pop stars of the time on it my generation were suddenly acutely aware of the word beyond the west because of it.
Now is a better time than any to use celebrity to raise awareness of issues and threats facing the world, we lap up anything with a celebrity label..in the jungle,in a house,just doing stuff for 7 days, family fortunes, the chase.. anything.
Why then is it seen so unusual that a single for charity by celebs is seen more unusual now than it was then? Why is viewed with more cynicism than it was then?
Whatever people think of Bob he has done something, he was successful the first time and fair play to him that despite his personal grief he is able to inspire others to look further than their own back door.

[Toy Soldier]

Time to bow out, :laugh: no links, nothing factual just an opinion, I guess he won't be buying the single, incidentally neither will I but I won't be judging those that do.
I can't be bothered finding his exact quote regarding Adele because I'm on my phone. Soz. The rest, yes, is opinion which I'm as entitled to state as those lining up to lick Geldof's bumhole are but what can I say? No, I can't provide links to "prove" that he's a self serving narcissist. No more than I can send you a link to "prove" that the bird I saw at the park yesterday was a duck. I just know what a duck looks, walks, and quacks like.

[Kizzy]

Massive oversimplification Kizzy. He represents, is a prime example of, rich Western attitudes towards Africa that are a PART of what keeps corrupt powers in place and keeps African infrastructure ineffective at best and nonexistent at worse. That lack of health and sanitation infrastructure is what has allowed a virus like Ebola (which is not highly contagious) to spread quickly and widely enough to become a serious issue.

Ebola is infectious and there currently is no cure.

Bob Geldof is not not partly responsible for anyones attitude, personal, cultural,societal and educational standards are. Nor is he responsible in any way for the political constructs in Africa.

[Kizzy]

I can't be bothered finding his exact quote regarding Adele because I'm on my phone. Soz. The rest, yes, is opinion which I'm as entitled to state as those lining up to lick Geldof's bumhole are but what can I say? No, I can't provide links to "prove" that he's a self serving narcissist. No more than I can send you a link to "prove" that the bird I saw at the park yesterday was a duck. I just know what a duck looks, walks, and quacks like.

I duck looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...
By this logic if a man looks like his trying to help, arranges the help and delivers the help is he not helping?..

[Toy Soldier]

Ebola is infectious and there currently is no cure.

Bob Geldof is not not partly responsible for anyones attitude, personal, cultural,societal and educational standards are. Nor is he responsible in any way for the political constructs in Africa.

It is not hugely infectious, not like influenza for example, it does not spread easily and if the nations where it had first took hold had decent infrastructure, it would have been easily contained. There is no real question about that.

He is not personally responsible for the political problems in Africa but as a very prominent figure constantly bleating about the continent, he absolutely IS responsible for the attitudes that he is helping to spread. Attitudes that contribute to those political problems.

If he is not responsible then he is nothing more than a bull in a china shop. Which is probably pretty accurate. I'm sure he has no idea that his vanity projects also cause harm. I don't suppose he particularly cares.

[Toy Soldier]

I duck looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...
By this logic if a man looks like his trying to help, arranges the help and delivers the help is he not helping?..

The duck isn't a duck if it's actually an onion with eyes and a beak drawn on it.

[Kizzy]

It is not hugely infectious, not like influenza for example, it does not spread easily and if the nations where it had first took hold had decent infrastructure, it would have been easily contained. There is no real question about that.

He is not personally responsible for the political problems in Africa but as a very prominent figure constantly bleating about the continent, he absolutely IS responsible for the attitudes that he is helping to spread. Attitudes that contribute to those political problems.

If he is not responsible then he is nothing more than a bull in a china shop. Which is probably pretty accurate. I'm sure he has no idea that his vanity projects also cause harm. I don't suppose he particularly cares.

Well thank you for stating the obvious.
He is not a 'prominent' figure though is he? and I suspect in the African political arena he is a virtual unknown. But don't let that colour your view.
They need aid, he helps raise awareness of this and we see the efforts already made in the news, I'm sorry I'm as cynical as the next person but I can't see why nothing is better than something if you have the influence and the means in this instance to make a difference.

[Toy Soldier]

Well thank you for stating the obvious.
He is not a 'prominent' figure though is he? and I suspect in the African political arena he is a virtual unknown. But don't let that colour your view.
They need aid, he helps raise awareness of this and we see the efforts already made in the news, I'm sorry I'm as cynical as the next person but I can't see why nothing is better than something if you have the influence and the means in this instance to make a difference.
Bob Geldof isn't a prominent figure when it comes to Western attitudes towards Africa? Over the last 30 years he's surely one of the MOST prominent figures... Certainly in Europe. The point isn't him being prominent in Africa itself but rather that African countries will never pull themselves out of 3rd world status while the rest of the world looks upon them as hot, dirty, starving, infected little hell-holes and Geldof and his ilk, no matter how well meaning (although it should be evident that I personally am very dubious of his motives) absolutely hammer that image home. It's in the very lyrics of the song and it's all over every speech he makes. "We must help them! We must help these poor creatures in their filthy hovel with our money. Give me the money so that I can help them!", he cries, with his eyes suitably teary and his hands literally wringing.

This does not help Africa or Africans. It never has. The money raised might help a few people in the short term but it doesn't matter a jot if the deeper issues are being constantly worsened by the messages and images used to "encourage" us.

[Cherie]

I can't be bothered finding his exact quote regarding Adele because I'm on my phone. Soz. The rest, yes, is opinion which I'm as entitled to state as those lining up to lick Geldof's bumhole are but what can I say? No, I can't provide links to "prove" that he's a self serving narcissist. No more than I can send you a link to "prove" that the bird I saw at the park yesterday was a duck. I just know what a duck looks, walks, and quacks like.

So its your rather biased opinion then, but its doesn't stop you stating that rather pompously imo :D: I think when people are looking at Geldof and not understanding that he has, at least, many and varied motives when he makes his "impassioned speeches" they can't possibly be taking into account the amount of money he has made from Band Aud.

it also doesn't stop you repeating the Adele story even though Geldof has denied it. You have no more insight that anyone else but you are portraying your opinion as factual when it is anything but.

[Kazanne]

At least Bob Geldof gets off his butt and does something instead of mouthing off behind a computer,his intentions are honourable,who cares what cause or country they are helping,that fact they are helping is a good thing surely.

[Toy Soldier]

So its your rather biased opinion then, but its doesn't stop you stating that rather pompously imo :D: I think when people are looking at Geldof and not understanding that he has, at least, many and varied motives when he makes his "impassioned speeches" they can't possibly be taking into account the amount of money he has made from Band Aud.

it also doesn't stop you repeating the Adele story even though Geldof has denied it. You have no more insight that anyone else but you are portraying your opinion as factual when it is anything but.
Biased? Why would they be Biased? Not convinced you know what the word means... I have no personal, financial or any other connection to Bob Geldof or Africa. There is nothing for me to bit biased about. Feel free to suggest where my bias lies, though.

I don't like to preface my opinions with "in my opinion" or "I might be wrong but...". It's a cop out. Of course I believe my opinions to be factual, otherwise I wouldn't hold them as my opinion? Do you not believe your own opinions to be true? That most be a very confusing way to exist.

[Toy Soldier]

At least Bob Geldof gets off his butt and does something instead of mouthing off behind a computer,his intentions are honourable,who cares what cause or country they are helping,that fact they are helping is a good thing surely.

You make the assumption that I haven't contributed thousands to various charities both personally and through fundraising (which I have) and also that I don't happily "mouth off" about things like this even when not behind a computer (which, rest assured, I do).

You have also managed to completely ignore the entire part where I said that it is entirely my belief (and the belief of many others) that overall he does NOT help. He guides them one step forward whilst kicking them two steps back. He helps one person today at the expense of ten more tomorrow. If you don't believe that, that's fine, but you're arguing against a point that I've never made. You're right, his motivations wouldn't matter if the net result was positive. I don't believe it is.

[Livia]

Did anyone see Sunday Morning Live with Sian Williams last Sunday (16th)? There was a Liberian woman on it who give a very clear indication what she thought of Bob Geldof and of Live Aid/Band Aid in general. I can't find a YouTube clip, but it's still on BBC IPlayer if anyone's interested.

[Josy]

Band Aid 30's Do They Know It's Christmas? has become the fastest selling single of 2014.

It's already shifted 206,000 copies (as of Mon 18th November) meaning it's on track to be number one in this Sunday's Official Charts.

It's the biggest start to the week for any single since the Military Wives' Christmas number one in 2011.

The track, which features One Direction, Ed Sheeran and Coldplay, is raising money to help tackle the Ebola outbreak.

Sir Bob Geldof said: "We are overwhelmed by the support that you have given us so far.

"What an amazing country this is. We're all sitting here overwhelmed and speechless.

"Let's keep leading the world on this. Let's try and beat the record set by the first Band Aid.

"It's so cool living in this country at times like this."


Great to see it's doing well, for such a good cause, well done to all involved and everyone that donated in one way or another :clap1:

[Northern Monkey]

Did anyone see Sunday Morning Live with Sian Williams last Sunday (16th)? There was a Liberian woman on it who give a very clear indication what she thought of Bob Geldof and of Live Aid/Band Aid in general. I can't find a YouTube clip, but it's still on BBC IPlayer if anyone's interested.

Yeah i saw that.She seemed pissed.I got what she was saying about giving the African artists the limelight instead of western artists(Geldoff and co) taking it.I get her sentiment but i did'nt agree,Only in that i think the Brit artists who are doing the song will generate more attention from the British public(the ones with the money) than unknown(in this country) African artists.She also did'nt like the lyrics as it portrays the people in her country as helpless etc,That's fair enough i suppose.Although i think she was more annoyed at the old lyrics than the new ones that they've used for this version of the song.I kind of understood where she was coming from but i thought her anger was misplaced.Those countries do need to be equipped and capable of dealing with an outbreak like this but while they're not,I can't see help from the west as being a bad thing.I don't particularly like Geldoff but i can't fault him for doing a good thing.

[Tom4784]

With all due respect Dezzy you have no idea what his motivations are, you've decided that yourself for whatever reason, it doesn't make it true and why is it only proper charity if you hide your face? :laugh:

It's obvious what his motivations are, he's not exactly subtle about it.

I'm not saying you have to hide your face but if you do something charitable and then make it all about you then you're obviously not doing it for the right reasons. Band Aid isn't about Africa, it's all about Bob Geldof.

[Vanessa]

I just bought it. :love:

[Josy]

It's obvious what his motivations are, he's not exactly subtle about it.

I'm not saying you have to hide your face but if you do something charitable and then make it all about you then you're obviously not doing it for the right reasons. Band Aid isn't about Africa, it's all about Bob Geldof.

I really don't get this logic at all, even if you detest the man, find him to be a pain in the arse whatever you still can't deny that he is putting in effort to raise both awareness and money for a cause.

[Liam-]

It's obvious what his motivations are, he's not exactly subtle about it.

I'm not saying you have to hide your face but if you do something charitable and then make it all about you then you're obviously not doing it for the right reasons. Band Aid isn't about Africa, it's all about Bob Geldof.

This really, if someone really wanted their cause to be about the thing they're raising money for, they'd let that take center stage and be the main focus, not themselves and their own ego.

[Livia]

It's obvious what his motivations are, he's not exactly subtle about it.

I'm not saying you have to hide your face but if you do something charitable and then make it all about you then you're obviously not doing it for the right reasons. Band Aid isn't about Africa, it's all about Bob Geldof.

Exactly. Have a look at his lifestyle. That doesn't come from being the ex-lead singer of the Boomtown Rats, that comes from being Sir Bob Geldof, philanthropist and saint.

[Josy]

This really, if someone really wanted their cause to be about the thing they're raising money for, they'd let that take center stage and be the main focus, not themselves and their own ego.

So in what way is this single/effort not taking centre stage? Bob and Midge organised it so of course he is going to appear on shows and stuff to promote it (like any other artists promoting their work) in what other way is he making himself the main focus?

[LukeB]

does any of the money even go to ebola? or is it a scam?

[Vanessa]

I love Band Aid. i remember the first one. :flutter:

[Josy]

Exactly. Have a look at his lifestyle. That doesn't come from being the ex-lead singer of the Boomtown Rats, that comes from being Sir Bob Geldof, philanthropist and saint.

I would guess a lot of his fortune comes from the multiple successful song writing and production companies he owned.

[Cherie]

Biased? Why would they be Biased? Not convinced you know what the word means... I have no personal, financial or any other connection to Bob Geldof or Africa. There is nothing for me to bit biased about. Feel free to suggest where my bias lies, though.

I don't like to preface my opinions with "in my opinion" or "I might be wrong but...". It's a cop out. Of course I believe my opinions to be factual, otherwise I wouldn't hold them as my opinion? Do you not believe your own opinions to be true? That most be a very confusing way to exist.

People can change their opinions if they are given new information on a topic, its is how opinions work, you foo fooed my post about Geldof denying the Adele story even though it was reported by Sky News, so I expect if he were lying Adele would have something to say about it. It would be better if you did preface your opinions as your own as sometimes your posts come across as more factual than they really are.

[Livia]

I would guess a lot of his fortune comes from the multiple successful song writing and production companies he owned.

Oh yeah, that'll be why he's still on my telly.

[Cherie]

Yeah i saw that.She seemed pissed.I got what she was saying about giving the African artists the limelight instead of western artists(Geldoff and co) taking it.I get her sentiment but i did'nt agree,Only in that i think the Brit artists who are doing the song will generate more attention from the British public(the ones with the money) than unknown(in this country) African artists.She also did'nt like the lyrics as it portrays the people in her country as helpless etc,That's fair enough i suppose.Although i think she was more annoyed at the old lyrics than the new ones that they've used for this version of the song.I kind of understood where she was coming from but i thought her anger was misplaced.Those countries do need to be equipped and capable of dealing with an outbreak like this but while they're not,I can't see help from the west as being a bad thing.I don't particularly like Geldoff but i can't fault him for doing a good thing.


Interesting so this woman who I guess lives in the UK is more interested in seeing black representation on the singe rather than actually tackling the disease, chip on shoulder much.

[LukeB]

I'm surprised the song is out on itunes this early.. why not compete for Christmas number 1?

[Vanessa]

So nice to see some old faces on Band Aid 30 : Sinead and U2. :lovedup:

[Northern Monkey]

Interesting so this woman who I guess lives in the UK is more interested in seeing black representation on the singe rather than actually tackling the disease, chip on shoulder much.

I'm not sure if she lives in the UK.I don't think it was necessarily black representation as much as local artists from the areas affected who can't get in the public eye like Geldoff can.But yeah,She did seem to have abit of a chip on her shoulder imo.The simple fact is that Geldoff can get people to buy this song and he can raise alot of money,Atleast he's using his influence for good.I'm sure the people affected by ebola don't share this womans opinion,I'm pretty sure they're glad of all the help they can get.

[Tom4784]

I really don't get this logic at all, even if you detest the man, find him to be a pain in the arse whatever you still can't deny that he is putting in effort to raise both awareness and money for a cause.

Like I said before, charity singles benefit those involved more than the charity they're helping. Why do you think the X-Factor has a charity single every year? It's because it's a bit of good press, a guaranteed No1 single and it leads to a nice little VT which shows off the contestants' softer sides that'll lead to a nice bump in potential votes. Band Aid is no different, every act involved and Bob Geldof all benefit from the publicity and it's an easy No1. Charity Singles are a cynical business and all involved are profiting in some way from a tragedy which is why I never support any of them and instead donate directly to the charities themselves

[Vanessa]

I'm not sure if she lives in the UK.I don't think it was necessarily black representation as much as local artists from the areas affected who can't get in the public eye like Geldoff can.But yeah,She did seem to have abit of a chip on her shoulder imo.The simple fact is that Geldoff can get people to buy this song and he can raise alot of money,Atleast he's using his influence for good.I'm sure the people affected by ebola don't share this womans opinion,I'm pretty sure they're glad of all the help they can get.

They need famous artists to help promote it. No one would take notice if thy put unknown singers.

[Cherie]

I'm not sure if she lives in the UK.I don't think it was necessarily black representation as much as local artists from the areas affected who can't get in the public eye like Geldoff can.But yeah,She did seem to have abit of a chip on her shoulder imo.The simple fact is that Geldoff can get people to buy this song and he can raise alot of money,Atleast he's using his influence for good.I'm sure the people affected by ebola don't share this womans opinion,I'm pretty sure they're glad of all the help they can get.


I'm not sure how many people would like to record with artists specially flown in from the affected areas :laugh: is she mad, there is nothing stopping her organising her own single with local artists though

[Cherie]

I'm surprised the song is out on itunes this early.. why not compete for Christmas number 1?

There is some urgency here to get this virus under control and the money is needed asap. I don't think being No. 1 at Christmas was the aim here.

[Crimson Dynamo]

There is some urgency here to get this virus under control and the money is needed asap. I don't think being No. 1 at Christmas was the aim here.

Nigeria, which is very close to the 3 main infected countries, declared its self Ebola free mid October.

If they can do this and they are in West Africa and the most populous country then what does that tell you about urgency?

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/ebola/20-october-2014/en/

[Vicky.]

Interesting so this woman who I guess lives in the UK is more interested in seeing black representation on the singe rather than actually tackling the disease, chip on shoulder much.

LOL this tbh :laugh:

[Toy Soldier]

You know what would be interesting? Someone should do a huge random word association survey in the streets, thousands of people, just one question...

"I say one thing, you tell me the first thing that pops into your head:

Band Aid"


... Then compare the number of people who say "Bob Geldoff" with the number who say anything at all to do with Ebola, anything at all to do with Africa or world hunger, or even charity.

I bet Ganondorf would get most mentions...

[Marsh.]

Oh sorry, I didn't realise that Marsh said that Google said that Bob Geldof said that Bob Geldof didn't say he had a problem with Adele not taking part. If Bob Geldof said that Bob Geldof is nice then I guess he must be. Because Bob Geldof also said that Bob Geldof always tells the truth.

Infallible.

Because you're cynical thoughts about a man you don't know are more substantial than what comes out of the man's own mouth? Ok then.

[Toy Soldier]

Because you're cynical thoughts about a man you don't know are more substantial than what comes out of the man's own mouth? Ok then.
Oh come on. Really?

Marsh: "You, sir, are an arse."

Joe Bloggs: "I assure you I am not an arse."

Marsh: "Oh! Sorry buddy, I don't know what I was thinking, I have clearly made an error. I mean, you must know yourself better than I know you."


Well Marsh, let me tell you something. I am literally always right. Always. And I'm damn sure that I know myself better than you know me so... You can't really say that I'm not. And I say Bob Geldof is a self serving, tax avoiding hypocrite. Mind = blown?

[Marsh.]

Oh come on. Really?

Marsh: "You, sir, are an arse."

Joe Bloggs: "I assure you I am not an arse."

Marsh: "Oh! Sorry buddy, I don't know what I was thinking, I have clearly made an error. I mean, you must know yourself better than I know you."


Well Marsh, let me tell you something. I am literally always right. Always. And I'm damn sure that I know myself better than you know me so... You can't really say that I'm not. And I say Bob Geldof is a self serving, tax avoiding hypocrite. Mind = blown?

I'll leave you to this strange fixation you have with insulting a man about things none of us know anything about.

Enjoy yourself.

Tabloids print an exaggerated story like 99% of their trash, Geldof says it's nonsense but he's obviously lying.... because two members of his family died from heroin overdoses...... and you don't like him. Logical.

[Toy Soldier]

Tabloids print an exaggerated story like 99% of their trash, Geldof says it's nonsense but he's obviously lying.... because two members of his family died from heroin overdoses...... and you don't like him. Logical.

Sigh. The Adele thing, true or not (I personally suspect it is true, though accept that many of the tabloid reportings of it are exaggerated, though that's irrelevant) has relatively little to do with what I dislike about Geldof. I can't even say for sure that I do personally dislike him, because I don't actually know him. No more than any of us can say that we LIKE him... Again, because none of us know him.

It's also not what I've been focussing on in this thread regarding Geldof / Africa / Band Aid and what I think is inherently wrong with it, what I dislike about the man in THAT sense, since maybe my first two posts in this thread.

But if you want to focus on that to make a point, that's entirely up to you my friend. It's a bit weak, though.

[Crimson Dynamo]

http://www.theguardian.com/media/mediamonkeyblog/2014/nov/17/bob-geldof-cut-off-by-sky-news-for-saying-bollocks-twice

[Vicky.]

http://www.theguardian.com/media/mediamonkeyblog/2014/nov/17/bob-geldof-cut-off-by-sky-news-for-saying-bollocks-twice

Geldof’s rant during the original Live Aid broadcast in 1985 made television history. “Get your money out now,” he shouted at viewers. “There are people dying now, so give me the money.” Geldof swears at one point in the broadcast, saying “**** the address, let’s get the numbers,” but he is often misquoted as having said “give me your ****ing money”.Give 'me' the money isb a pretty odd turn of phrase given what band aid was meant to be about D: I didnt know this

[kirklancaster]

So Bob Geldorf says; "“There are people dying now, so give me the money” and swears at one point in the broadcast of the original Live Aid.

For Fecks Sake!!! The guy was a 34 year old pop star in 1985 who was a product of the 'punk' era - as were most of the audience - and not only was it 'cool' to talk in such a fashion, the event was mega, historically ground-breaking, and a phenomenal success, so everyone present was emotionally hyper charged

As for saying bollocks twice during a Sky News broadcast?-- Ooooh I'm shocked. It's reprehensible. Outrageous. Letter to the Times at least.

Oh p--l--e--a--s--e do me a favour. The words; 'Nit' and 'Picking' combined, and 'over-reaction' spring to mind.

:nono::nono::nono:

[Marsh.]

But if you want to focus on that to make a point, that's entirely up to you my friend. It's a bit weak, though.

YOU were the one to raise those points in the first place.

If they're irrelevant to what you want to say then keep your weak irrelevant points out of the thread.

[Cherie]

It will come to a point where nobody will stick their neck out to help anyone, anyone would think Bob was advocating conscripting the unemployed and shipping them to Liberia to nurse the sick rather than asking people to buy a 1.99 single :laugh:

[kirklancaster]

YOU were the one to raise those points in the first place.

If they're irrelevant to what you want to say then keep your weak irrelevant points out of the thread.

Gets on phone to call Michael Buffer. Headlines looming; "Will this fight eclipse Bellew v Cleverly 2?".

"Let's get ready to ruuuuummmmbbbble!":hehe::hehe::hehe:

[kirklancaster]

It will come to a point where nobody will stick their neck out to help anyone, anyone would think Bob was advocating conscripting the unemployed and shipping them to Liberia to nurse the sick rather than asking people to buy a 1.99 single :laugh:

What an absolutely spliffing, splendiferous idea Cherie!!! Must text Cameron.:hehe:

[Crimson Dynamo]

It will come to a point where nobody will stick their neck out to help anyone, anyone would think Bob was advocating conscripting the unemployed and shipping them to Liberia to nurse the sick rather than asking people to buy a 1.99 single :laugh:

It is like people on this thread have not grasped how much we give to Africa and what we have done already


i give up..:shrug:

[kirklancaster]

Nigeria, which is very close to the 3 main infected countries, declared its self Ebola free mid October.

If they can do this and they are in West Africa and the most populous country then what does that tell you about urgency?

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/ebola/20-october-2014/en/

Interesting article - especially;

"Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country and its newest economic powerhouse."

Probably all the trillions of pounds Nigerians rake in every year from all their pathetic internet scamming.

In any event, just because Nigeria has its house in order does not mean that there is not great urgency to combat this virus - such a suggestion is totally preposterous.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Interesting article - especially;

"Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country and its newest economic powerhouse."

Probably all the trillions of pounds Nigerians rake in every year from all their pathetic internet scamming.

In any event, just because Nigeria has its house in order does not mean that there is not great urgency to combat this virus - such a suggestion is totally preposterous.

why

[Cherie]

It is like people on this thread have not grasped how much we give to Africa and what we have done already


i give up..:shrug:

Oh I didn't know we HAD to buy the single :suspect:

[Toy Soldier]

YOU were the one to raise those points in the first place.

If they're irrelevant to what you want to say then keep your weak irrelevant points out of the thread.

I don't consider them irrelevant but you implied that my entire problem with the Band Aid concept, and the way Geldof sells it, is based on what he (ok, ok, "allegedly") said about Adele and me having some sort of "odd fixation" on him / disliking him for this and because of his family issues... which completely ignores the majority of my other posts in the thread which didn't reference either of these two factors at all :shrug:

[kirklancaster]

why

Because the virus is the perfect organism.

Because the Ebola virus is highly contagious.

Because we don't yet understand everything about it

Because the Ebola virus is so potentially lethal.

Because our preventative policies are woefully inadequate.

Because the sooner any war is won, the fewer the causalities.

[Josy]

Oh yeah, that'll be why he's still on my telly.

Well tbf here the only time I have personally noticed/heard of Bob in any media at all for the past while is due to his daughters death and then on the xfactor promoting the band aid single but like I say that's just my personal thoughts.

Like I said before, charity singles benefit those involved more than the charity they're helping. Why do you think the X-Factor has a charity single every year? It's because it's a bit of good press, a guaranteed No1 single and it leads to a nice little VT which shows off the contestants' softer sides that'll lead to a nice bump in potential votes. Band Aid is no different, every act involved and Bob Geldof all benefit from the publicity and it's an easy No1. Charity Singles are a cynical business and all involved are profiting in some way from a tragedy which is why I never support any of them and instead donate directly to the charities themselves

Surely any press is a good thing when the sole purpose is raising awareness though, the song reaching number one even better?

This is why I don't understand why people are getting so worked up about this, even if it does benefit the celebs that are taking the time out of their own lives to do it, what does that matter? as long as the main point gets across about this virus and who better to put that point across than people that are looked up to in a way.

[Marsh.]

I don't consider them irrelevant but you implied that my entire problem with the Band Aid concept, and the way Geldof sells it, is based on what he (ok, ok, "allegedly") said about Adele and me having some sort of "odd fixation" on him / disliking him for this and because of his family issues... which completely ignores the majority of my other posts in the thread which didn't reference either of these two factors at all :shrug:

I didn't imply those were the only things at all. I was mocking your irrelevant points.

[Josy]

It will come to a point where nobody will stick their neck out to help anyone, anyone would think Bob was advocating conscripting the unemployed and shipping them to Liberia to nurse the sick rather than asking people to buy a 1.99 single :laugh:

Its actually crazy the backlash about this, yet think of all these people saying what a great job the celebs done raising awareness for when they jumped on the 'ice water' bandwagon..

[Vicky.]

I do believe that a lot of the time these charity things are self-serving. Especially in Bobs case tbh. However...it does raise awareness and cash for good causes, so I dont see the need to get worked up about it.

[Northern Monkey]

They need famous artists to help promote it. No one would take notice if thy put unknown singers.

Yes,Exactly.

[Livia]

It will come to a point where nobody will stick their neck out to help anyone, anyone would think Bob was advocating conscripting the unemployed and shipping them to Liberia to nurse the sick rather than asking people to buy a 1.99 single :laugh:

Haven't seen anyone on here say they wouldn't give to a charity for ebola. Lots of people have already donated. It isn't like no one gave anything until Bob stepped up and pricked everyone's conscience, although that's what's coming across.

[Tom4784]

Well tbf here the only time I have personally noticed/heard of Bob in any media at all for the past while is due to his daughters death and then on the xfactor promoting the band aid single but like I say that's just my personal thoughts.



Surely any press is a good thing when the sole purpose is raising awareness though, the song reaching number one even better?

This is why I don't understand why people are getting so worked up about this, even if it does benefit the celebs that are taking the time out of their own lives to do it, what does that matter? as long as the main point gets across about this virus and who better to put that point across than people that are looked up to in a way.

It's Ebola, it doesn't exactly need more awareness when the media has been dominated with stories about it for months. At this point everyone knows what Ebola is. It doesn't need a prick with a Messiah Complex to muddy the understanding of Africa's situation and the virus whilst lining his own pockets at it's expense.

[Cherie]

Haven't seen anyone on here say they wouldn't give to a charity for ebola. Lots of people have already donated. It isn't like no one gave anything until Bob stepped up and pricked everyone's conscience, although that's what's coming across.


No what is coming across is a lot of cynicism about Geldofs actions, and dragging his reputation and his relationship with his family into the argument just for the hell of it.

[Cherie]

Its actually crazy the backlash about this, yet think of all these people saying what a great job the celebs done raising awareness for when they jumped on the 'ice water' bandwagon..

That's a very good point.

[Josy]

It's Ebola, it doesn't exactly need more awareness when the media has been dominated with stories about it for months. At this point everyone knows what Ebola is. It doesn't need a prick with a Messiah Complex to muddy the understanding of Africa's situation and the virus whilst lining his own pockets at it's expense.

It actually does need more awareness and lots of it, especially since there is still a slim risk that it could reach the UK at some point, hell there was even members on here debating it in the other thread that clearly had no understanding of the virus at all apart from the name... They had no idea how it spreads, the incubation time frame and so on, so if it takes some high profile people like the celebrities to make more people aware of it then it can only be a good thing regardless of who organised it, it's getting a great amount of exposure and like mentioned a lot in the thread no one is being forced to buy it.

[Kizzy]

No what is coming across is a lot of cynicism about Geldofs actions, and dragging his reputation and his relationship with his family into the argument just for the hell of it.

Well said! whatever anyones bizarre imagination cooks up as to his alternative agenda for raising awareness the fact is he is... And getting 1D involved? Masterstroke.

[GypsyGoth]

More money is going to be there to fight this virus thanks to the charity single. Geldolf comes across as a bit of a crusader, but the end result is that there will be more resources to fight this problem that is facing a part of the world.

What's better? Doing nothing, him behaving like most of the rest of us who don't t give a damn about ebola. Or him trying his best to help, devoting his time, energy and influence.

Even if his efforts just save one person, isn't that enough to justify his actions.

[Marsh.]

More money is going to be there to fight this virus thanks to the charity single. Geldolf comes across as a bit of a crusader, but the end result is that there will be more resources to fight this problem that is facing a part of the world.

What's better? Doing nothing, him behaving like most of the rest of us who don't t give a damn about ebola. Or him trying his best to help, devoting his time, energy and influence.

Even if his efforts just save one person, isn't that enough to justify his actions.

But it's getting his face on the TV and newspapers. Doing good for the world pales into comparison when it gives him some fame. :mad: :fist:

[Tom4784]

It actually does need more awareness and lots of it, especially since there is still a slim risk that it could reach the UK at some point, hell there was even members on here debating it in the other thread that clearly had no understanding of the virus at all apart from the name... They had no idea how it spreads, the incubation time frame and so on, so if it takes some high profile people like the celebrities to make more people aware of it then it can only be a good thing regardless of who organised it, it's getting a great amount of exposure and like mentioned a lot in the thread no one is being forced to buy it.

I wouldn't even say it's raised awareness of Ebola that much and it certainly hasn't educated anyone on how it spreads. It's done more to raise awareness of Bob Geldof than anything else and, unless there's a verse I've missed which details how Ebola is spread and how to avoid it, it's not educating people either.

It's just a shallow gesture that ultimately serves the celeb's interests above all else.

If Bob Geldof made an appeal that didn't present himself as Africa's sole Savior and instead highlighted the plight and the people that are actually doing something significant to prevent the spread of Ebola then I'd support it but I can't support something as self serving as this 'charity' single.

[kirklancaster]

It actually does need more awareness and lots of it, especially since there is still a slim risk that it could reach the UK at some point, hell there was even members on here debating it in the other thread that clearly had no understanding of the virus at all apart from the name... They had no idea how it spreads, the incubation time frame and so on, so if it takes some high profile people like the celebrities to make more people aware of it then it can only be a good thing regardless of who organised it, it's getting a great amount of exposure and like mentioned a lot in the thread no one is being forced to buy it.

Yes. And just to reinforce your points about Geldorf raising awareness - or polarising it as I like to think of it - 149 posts on this thread alone as a result of this single.

If this single can stir up so much controversy and move so many people to post on the subject just on this forum, then those claiming Geldorf and his single are redundant better think again, because we may or may not all have been aware of Ebola, but nobody was even talking about it until this subject came along.

[Kizzy]

I wouldn't even say it's raised awareness of Ebola that much and it certainly hasn't educated anyone on how it spreads. It's done more to raise awareness of Bob Geldof than anything else and, unless there's a verse I've missed which details how Ebola is spread and how to avoid it, it's not educating people either.

It's just a shallow gesture that ultimately serves the celeb's interests above all else.

If Bob Geldof made an appeal that didn't present himself as Africa's sole Savior and instead highlighted the plight and the people that are actually doing something significant to prevent the spread of Ebola then I'd support it but I can't support something as self serving as this 'charity' single.

Hasn't raised awareness that much...did you watch x factor on sunday? And 1D are on it...look at their UK and US fanbase. Some of the fans of the show are maybe not as up on their contemporary issues as others but I would think that this effort helped.
He has nothing to promote has he? no new music, book so what is the benefit I don't see it.
Even ( And I don't think for a second you are) if he was doing it for those reasons you claim it's raising funds that are badly needed in the process so who cares.
As said if you don't agree with the methods, the man or the music don't buy it easy as.

[Toy Soldier]

At the same time it contributes to the negative stereotypes about Africa (the whole continent, not just the few affected countries ) and these stereotypes are part of what keeps these countries POOR and their people DYING. It is impossible for them to climb whilst westerners happily paint them as the world's poor cousins.

Like I keep saying - might save lives tomorrow, will kill millions more over the decades.

I don't get what's so hard to understand about that.

[Toy Soldier]

I am not disputing Band Aid’s good intentions. But the shock-factor strategy they have used since the 1980s has sparked a whole wave of “good cause” organisations that have been irresponsible with regard to the images shown to the rest of the world. It’s been totally one-sided. That’s understandable in part, as they wouldn’t raise much money if they showed the affluence, wealth, and happy lifestyles that exist in the continent. But in the process of doing all this “good work” a huge imbalance has been created.

Advertisement

That image of poverty and famine is extremely powerful psychologically. With decades of such imagery being pumped out, the average westerner is likely to donate £2 a month or buy a charity single that gives them a nice warm fuzzy feeling; but they are much less likely to want to go on holiday to, or invest in, Africa. If you are reading this and haven’t been to Africa, ask yourself why.

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/nov/19/turn-down-band-aid-bob-geldof-africa-fuse-odg?CMP=fb_gu


Worth a read.

[Toy Soldier]

The message is, that for the sake of a few million raised by charity every few years helping a few towns and people, the tourism industry in Africa is decimated, and few want to invest in African businesses or enterprises costing the continent billions, robbing them of the chance to properly grow their own economies.

I hope that people can start to get to grips with this. I know it's difficult to understand that raising charity money can end up having the opposite effect. But at least give it some thought.

[Cherie]

The message is, that for the sake of a few million raised by charity every few years helping a few towns and people, the tourism industry in Africa is decimated, and few want to invest in African businesses or enterprises costing the continent billions, robbing them of the chance to properly grow their own economies.

I hope that people can start to get to grips with this. I know it's difficult to understand that raising charity money can end up having the opposite effect. But at least give it some thought.

No that is not difficult to understand at all, and I don't know why you think it would be, if Africa can go it alone by all means feel free to go ahead, I don't see Liberia or Sierra Leone turning away the Army or the NHS staff or any other countries staff though, neither do I hear of more economically sound African countries stepping in to help, maybe if they were seen to be actually doing anything the charities might back off? To my mind this is about preventing this disease spreading to other counties and stopping it in its tracks, it has nothing to do with the African economy or lack of

[Crimson Dynamo]

No that is not difficult to understand at all, and I don't know why you think it would be, if Africa can go it alone by all means feel free to go ahead, I don't see Liberia or Sierra Leone turning away the Army or the NHS staff or any other countries staff though, neither do I hear of more economically sound African countries stepping in to help, maybe if they were seen to be actually doing anything the charities might back off? To my mind this is about preventing this disease spreading to other counties and stopping it in its tracks, it has nothing to do with the African economy or lack of

Would it not have been better to sing to other African countries a song that says

stop spending on military and start helping your poorer neighbours?

maybe if top celebs started that narrative it may help more?

[Toy Soldier]

No that is not difficult to understand at all, and I don't know why you think it would be, if Africa can go it alone by all means feel free to go ahead, I don't see Liberia or Sierra Leone turning away the Army or the NHS staff or any other countries staff though, neither do I hear of more economically sound African countries stepping in to help, maybe if they were seen to be actually doing anything the charities might back off? To my mind this is about preventing this disease spreading to other counties and stopping it in its tracks, it has nothing to do with the African economy or lack of

It has everything to do with the lack of African economy because parts of Africa have been kept under a boot-heel, a boot heel that things like Band Aid inadvertently add weight to. Again, it's not "all Bob's fault lol", they just further the perceptions with their ham-fisted messages - they provide charity but damage the prospects of any real economy developing.

If these countries had had proper sanitation and healthcare systems in place a year ago, Ebola would never have spread beyond a few isolated cases. Even if we do "stop Ebola in it's tracks", the further damage done to these economies ensures that nothing is going to improve any time soon, and it's only a matter of time before there's some other viral outbreak or disaster.

It's not that anyone should just "do nothing" but these are complex, intricate issues that need to be addressed, properly, to stop things like this from happening anywhere in the world. It's not OK to just let it happen over and over and then release a knee-jerk charity song and say "Everything's going to be OK! We're sending you some lovely money to help you, as you must need help to survive in your putrid hell-pit of a continent!". It's clumsy, and the good done in the short term is outweighed massively by the long term damage to these countries' images.

Like I said; it's like a bull in a china shop. It's trying to perform an appendectomy with a claw hammer.

[kirklancaster]

It has everything to do with the lack of African economy because parts of Africa have been kept under a boot-heel, a boot heel that things like Band Aid inadvertently add weight to. Again, it's not "all Bob's fault lol", they just further the perceptions with their ham-fisted messages - they provide charity but damage the prospects of any real economy developing.


If I understand what you are saying T.S. - then isn't a logical extension of this argument, that we should stop all benefits to the needy in this country because it's a 'short term' fix which only exacerbates the underlying causes of that need, and is encouraging the recipients of such benefits never to do anything for themselves which will make them self-sufficient?

Why can't the countries receiving Bob's millions still develop their economy independently of, and extra to these millions?

Why are such vast amounts of charity monies actually harming such independent economic development?

Surely, then, the real truth is, that the ruling authorities of these countries would still be as impotent and inert in developing any kind of self-sustaining economy even without Bob's millions? Therefore, no type of funding at all would be available for dealing with this terrible virus, it's causes and effects?

I admit to being confused by your contention.

[Toy Soldier]

If I understand what you are saying T.S. - then isn't a logical extension of this argument, that we should stop all benefits to the needy in this country because it's a 'short term' fix which only exacerbates the underlying causes of that need, and is encouraging the recipients of such benefits never to do anything for themselves which will make them self-sufficient?

Why can't the countries receiving Bob's millions still develop their economy independently of, and extra to these millions?

Why are such vast amounts of charity monies actually harming such independent economic development?

Surely, then, the real truth is, that the ruling authorities of these countries would still be as impotent and inert in developing any kind of self-sustaining economy even without Bob's millions? Therefore, no type of funding at all would be available for dealing with this terrible virus, it's causes and effects?

I admit to being confused by your contention.
No - although there is indeed a problem with benefits recipients being demonised - it's not the same thing. I'm not saying that these countries don't help themselves because they receive charity. I'm saying that this specific type of charity, that hammers home the message that Africa is poor / dirty / helpless, inadvertently gives people a certain image of these countries that is damaging to them and COSTS them more than what charity they get. Like I said, tourism is all but destroyed (no one wants to go to these countries, we've seen how awful they are, right?) and people with real money don't want to invest in countries that are seen to be "failing".

If a charity drive that raises millions ends up costing their economy ten times that in lost revenue because of the "bad press", then it will have been a complete failure. And yet it will be hailed as a success.

I'm not necessarily talking about the Ebola issue here, it's understandable that people want to avoid countries when there is disease, but the original band aid and follow ups... Yes, they did a lot of good in the short term in 1984,but how much has their message about poor, starving Africa actually harmed Africans in the three decades since then? I would argue, more than any of us can imagine. Exponentially more than can be raised with yet another song release.


The article I linked to explains the effect much more succinctly than I have I think.

[Tom4784]

Hasn't raised awareness that much...did you watch x factor on sunday? And 1D are on it...look at their UK and US fanbase. Some of the fans of the show are maybe not as up on their contemporary issues as others but I would think that this effort helped.
He has nothing to promote has he? no new music, book so what is the benefit I don't see it.
Even ( And I don't think for a second you are) if he was doing it for those reasons you claim it's raising funds that are badly needed in the process so who cares.
As said if you don't agree with the methods, the man or the music don't buy it easy as.

Again, there's probably very few people who aren't aware of Ebola and Band Aid does nothing but say' EBOLA EXISTS! GIVE US MONEY'. It's a shallow message and it's not raising awareness of anything that a vast majority of the UK isn't aware of.

His motives do matter because he's serving himself up as this great savior when all Band Aid does is throw other people's money at the problem and hopes it goes away whilst also stealing spotlight from other more meaningful and useful appeals. Like I said before, if his appeal highlighted the charities and organisations combatting the disease then I'd support it.

I can't support a vacuous appeal like this in which Geldof and his merry band of arseholes are presented as living gods that have taken an afternoon off to help all the poor little Africans who apparently doesn't know what Christmas is (despite Christianity having a huge following in Africa) and can't stand on their own two feet for a second without Saint Bob's help. It's self indulgent tripe that patronises the people it's meant to be aiding.

[Toy Soldier]

I agree again Dezzy, on it being fine if it was to highlight the organisations that are and have been working hard (and quietly) in these areas, working WITH the local people, for years. No one is saying that Charity is a bad thing or that no one should donate. Just that there are better people to send that money to and this siphons money away from those.

The world has changed a lot in 30 years and they should be having a modern, progressive charity drive to tackle this. Not a tired old relic (the song itself, as well as Sir Bob) wheeled out to rehash ideas from decades ago. As you say, this wrong headed idea that if you throw a block of money at a problem it will go away.

[Jamesy]

I think the main problem with Band Aid is that it is made out as the ONLY way to donate to fight Ebola. It almost gives the image across "if you do not buy this single you're a bad person and want people to die".

The whole basis of Band Aid is a good one. It's there to help ultimately. Although this is dampened by the generalisation of Africa, the artists using it as a money spinner and the fact that Bob Geldof is probably one of the worst spokesmen to have. I know he's the pulling power behind it although really the way he has handled things since Saturday has made me think someone else should have been at the forefront of it all.

[Cherie]

I agree again Dezzy, on it being fine if it was to highlight the organisations that are and have been working hard (and quietly) in these areas, working WITH the local people, for years. No one is saying that Charity is a bad thing or that no one should donate. Just that there are better people to send that money to and this siphons money away from those.

The world has changed a lot in 30 years and they should be having a modern, progressive charity drive to tackle this. Not a tired old relic (the song itself, as well as Sir Bob) wheeled out to rehash ideas from decades ago. As you say, this wrong headed idea that if you throw a block of money at a problem it will go away.



I agree with you that throwing money at Africa doesn't solve the problem which is why I rarely support any African charity. However in this situation I would hope we can actually see results ie infrastructure being built,training etc, research into a vaccine so I can't see how it compares to previous efforts

[Cherie]

Would it not have been better to sing to other African countries a song that says

stop spending on military and start helping your poorer neighbours?

maybe if top celebs started that narrative it may help more?

I agree! Maybe if the more economically sound African economies stood up to the plate, Europe and America could stand down, coming out with Smug Ebola free statements seem to be the extent of their contribution

[Kizzy]

Again, there's probably very few people who aren't aware of Ebola and Band Aid does nothing but say' EBOLA EXISTS! GIVE US MONEY'. It's a shallow message and it's not raising awareness of anything that a vast majority of the UK isn't aware of.

His motives do matter because he's serving himself up as this great savior when all Band Aid does is throw other people's money at the problem and hopes it goes away whilst also stealing spotlight from other more meaningful and useful appeals. Like I said before, if his appeal highlighted the charities and organisations combatting the disease then I'd support it.

I can't support a vacuous appeal like this in which Geldof and his merry band of arseholes are presented as living gods that have taken an afternoon off to help all the poor little Africans who apparently doesn't know what Christmas is (despite Christianity having a huge following in Africa) and can't stand on their own two feet for a second without Saint Bob's help. It's self indulgent tripe that patronises the people it's meant to be aiding.

That is a very over simplified assumption there, at the moment there are no more meaningful issues than containing this virus that is the bottom line.
It is a global threat no matter where on earth these things originate.
I don't think there's anymore to be said and it's clear you would rather he didn't bother helping raise the millions he does.
To me, and this is just my personal view that this is a very English attitude.. We hate anyone who thrusts themselves forward in any bombastic or over dramatic fashion as it's seen as crass, vulgar and common.
It's a bit small minded but it's understandable.

[Tom4784]

That is a very over simplified assumption there, at the moment there are no more meaningful issues than containing this virus that is the bottom line.
It is a global threat no matter where on earth these things originate.
I don't think there's anymore to be said and it's clear you would rather he didn't bother helping raise the millions he does.
To me, and this is just my personal view that this is a very English attitude.. We hate anyone who thrusts themselves forward in any bombastic or over dramatic fashion as it's seen as crass, vulgar and common.
It's a bit small minded but it's understandable.

I've said plenty of times why I'm against Band Aid, I'm not against him raising money, I'm against the way he presents his campaign and how he makes it less about the cause and more about himself and the celebs involved so you can drop those little digs because you're not being sly or clever about it and it's embarassing to see you try to be.

[Benjamin]

This "cause" disrespects Africa as a continent. There are by far bigger disasters in the whole of Africa that are ignored yet this tiny "outbreak" is now given more focus and puts such a negative outlook on most of the countries that are actually not effected. Bob doing his usual self-righteuous ****.

I'd like to see him match from his own money every penny raised to see how concerned he really is.

[Kizzy]

I've said plenty of times why I'm against Band Aid, I'm not against him raising money, I'm against the way he presents his campaign and how he makes it less about the cause and more about himself and the celebs involved so you can drop those little digs because you're not being sly or clever about it and it's embarassing to see you try to be.

Don't get personal dezzy please, I've said nothing that hasn't been said before on this issue.

[Tom4784]

Don't get personal dezzy please, I've said nothing that hasn't been said before on this issue.

Ah that old Kizzy trick of insulting someone and then acting like the innocent party afterwards.

You called me small minded and made assumptions about me, you made it personnel so don't be a goddamn hypocrite if someone decides to point out justified observations about you.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Bob Geldof is a rich man. According to the Sunday Times rich list he is worth £32 million and like most rich people he is understandably keen to hang on to his fortune. That's why, very sensibly, he gives no more of his money away to the Government than he has to. As a registered non-dom he is legally entitled to avoid income and capital gains tax on international earnings. Those of us without non-dom status may envy him the privilege, but we can hardly blame him for it: after all we most of us know that we'd do a much better job of spending (and saving) our money than ever the poltroons in the various agencies of government do.

http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/news/jamesdelingpole/100158302/the-problem-with-god-is-he-thinks-hes-bob-geldof/

[kirklancaster]

Bob Geldof is a rich man. According to the Sunday Times rich list he is worth £32 million and like most rich people he is understandably keen to hang on to his fortune. That's why, very sensibly, he gives no more of his money away to the Government than he has to. As a registered non-dom he is legally entitled to avoid income and capital gains tax on international earnings. Those of us without non-dom status may envy him the privilege, but we can hardly blame him for it: after all we most of us know that we'd do a much better job of spending (and saving) our money than ever the poltroons in the various agencies of government do.

http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/news/jamesdelingpole/100158302/the-problem-with-god-is-he-thinks-hes-bob-geldof/

:clap1::clap1::clap1:

[AnnieK]

I shan't buy the single....there are other equally worthy causes in the UK that I would prefer to donate to. 440 people die of cancer every day (in 3 weeks more people in the UK will die from cancer than so far during the Ebola crisis), a hospice has to raise £16,000 per day to provide facilities so people can die in dignity and receive very little or no funding, 27% of children in the Uk live below the poverty line. I do feel the celebs do this more as a publicity stunt rather than for actual charitable reasons.

However, this is my personal view and if this single saves lives then it's all good and worthy but I personally wish to donate my money to charities that I want to.

[Kizzy]

Ah that old Kizzy trick of insulting someone and then acting like the innocent party afterwards.

You called me small minded and made assumptions about me, you made it personnel so don't be a goddamn hypocrite if someone decides to point out justified observations about you.

I didn't mean you personally, but seeing as you have chosen to make it all about you then yes I suppose I do see you as small minded on this issue

[anne666]

:clap1::clap1::clap1:

While the rest of is have to subsidise people like him and Bono? I have no desire to applaud.

[kirklancaster]

While the rest of is have to subsidise people like him and Bono? I have no desire to applaud.

Does anyone on here seriously believe that Geldof and Bono have such financial need that they would have to set up as complex and intricate a scam as the Band Aid concerts would have to be in order to make money?

Geldof is worth over £30 million so feck knows what Bono is worth.

Or are we suggesting that they are both so wealthy because of Band Aid?

There is not one iota of evidence to suggest that these people personally gain from these concerts, because they don't. Geldof, Ure and Bono are driven by sincere humanitarian causes not personal gain, and I think the besmirching of these thoroughly decent guys on here is well out of order and borne of mere personal dislike not valid reasons.

I applauded LT's post because it was informative, and supports my own contention that Geldof is an independently wealthy man who has no need to impeach his honourable reputation for the sake of gleaning a few quid in dirty money from Band Aid. After all he's not a politician.

Finally; I find it highly relevant that Geldof and Bono are Irish, and Ure Scottish. When taken into account with the fact that Ireland also topped the list of a recent survey to ascertain the most generous charitable Nations in the world, then maybe the Gaelic races could teach us all something about the true meaning of selflessness.

[Kizzy]

:cheer2:

[Northern Monkey]

I bet Bono is worth some serious cash.Did'nt he just give an album away for free on iTunes?

[Crimson Dynamo]

hiSsrEg3tks

Well this is wrong

[kirklancaster]

hiSsrEg3tks

Well this is wrong

:clap1::clap1::clap1:

I know you don't approve of this 'clapping' but credit it where it's due - this is fecking hilarious and very, very, clever.

My only problem is, I have to resist - 'Get Thee Behind Me Satan' style - the wish that half the pricks in this parody had got fecking Ebola. :hehe::evilgrin:

[Kizzy]

:clap1::clap1::clap1:

I know you don't approve of this 'clapping' but credit it where it's due - this is fecking hilarious and very, very, clever.

My only problem is, I have to resist - 'Get Thee Behind Me Satan' style - the wish that half the pricks in this parody had got fecking Ebola. :hehe::evilgrin:

Oof... WWJS (what would jeebus say)

[Cherie]

While the rest of is have to subsidise people like him and Bono? I have no desire to applaud.

In what way? :suspect: