How Brafa's Charity Effort Stood Out During Live Aid
While Live Aid was making headlines, a lesser-known charity effort called Brafa was quietly making a difference with its reggae roots. Led by Leon Leiffer, Brafa recorded a charity single and organized a benefit concert to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. Despite receiving less publicity, Brafa's initiative showcased the power of grassroots efforts in making a positive impact.
Forty years ago, a charity single called Let's Make Africa Green Again was recorded in London to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. The effort, organized by the British Reggae Artists Famine Appeal team (Brafa), featured reggae stars and culminated in a benefit concert attended by thousands.
Leon Leiffer, a founding member of The Blackstones, initiated the project after hearing about the famine in Ethiopia. Despite facing challenges, including difficulties finding sponsorship, the charity single was recorded at Eddy Grant's Hive Studios. The song was released on 21 April with proceeds donated to Save the Children fund for Ethiopia.
While Live Aid was a major event at the time, some reggae artists felt overlooked by the organizers. In response, Brafa organized their own benefit concert in Hackney, raising over £8,000. The group's efforts were recognized years later, leading to the naming of Brafa Square in Shoreditch Park.
Reflecting on their achievements, Leiffer stated, 'They didn't invite us so we did our own thing.' Brafa's work may not have received as much attention as Live Aid, but it remains a proud moment for those involved.
According to the source: BBC.
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