Live Aid, famine, debt and activism: A four decade struggle for justice

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, host Nick Shepley is joined by veteran journalist and author Paul Vallely to explore the definitive inside story of Live Aid and its far-reaching legacy. Vallely’s new book, Live Aid: The Definitive 40-Year Story from Pop and Poverty to Politics and Power, chronicles the journey from the 1984–85 Ethiopian famine and the iconic 1985 Live Aid concert through four decades of activism against global poverty.

The conversation delves into how a charity rock concert galvanized a generation, evolving from a one-time musical fundraiser into a powerful catalyst for political change on issues like debt relief and fair trade.

Vallely shares his firsthand experiences – from reporting on the Ethiopian famine that inspired Band Aid to traveling across Africa with Live Aid founder Bob Geldof. He discusses how Live Aid sparked a shift “from charity to justice,” transforming public consciousness and empowering ordinary people to believe they can make a difference. This episode blends captivating behind-the-scenes stories (from rock stars and world leaders to logistical challenges in war-torn Ethiopia) with insightful analysis of Live Aid’s political and social impact.

Paul Vallely’s book, Live Aid: The Definitive 40 Year Story from Pop and Poverty to Politics and Power, was published in November 2025 and is available now. Listeners who enjoyed this discussion can find a wealth of further details and untold stories in the book (which features a foreword by Bob Geldof). As always, we encourage you to support your local independent bookshop or the publisher when picking up a copy!

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