Paul on new version of "Do They Know It's Christmas"

By Paul Cashmere

4 November 2004

Paul McCartney has announced that he will take part in the third all star line-up of the new version of 'Do They Know It's Christmas'. McCartney will appear as a musician, not a singer, on the new record playing bass.

The group will be named Band-Aid 20 in reference to the 20th anniversary of the original recording of the song.

Band Aid 20 will feature Robbie Williams, The Darkness, Chris Martin, Noel Gallagher, Dido, Damon Albarn, Thom Yorke, Beverly Knight, Katie Melua and Beverly Knight.

The song will be recorded next week in London.

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U2’s Bono will also take part, singing his infamous line from the 1984 recording. He is the only artist involved from the original line-up.

Coldplay’s Chris Martin is believed to be opening the song, Supergrass’ Danny Goffey is to play the drums, while Travis’ Fran Healy is to play in the guitar section.

Robbie Williams has reportedly recorded the whole track, leaving producer Nigel Godrich to chose which of the pop star’s lines he wishes to use in the song.

Williams recorded his section in LA on Monday (November 1) as he won’t be available for the live recording session in London. Dido is also believed to have done the same.

Snow Patrol and Keane have also confirmed their contribution to the charity single.

The Darkness’ Justin Hawkins, Jamelia and Sugababes will also be taking part.