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Bob Geldof has added another accolade to his remarkable career, as he and The Boomtown Rats were presented with a special honorary award from the Official Charts Company to mark the release of Just for One Day, The Live Aid Musical (Original Cast Recording).
The album, released today, celebrates one of music’s most historic moments, Live Aid, and coincides with the 40th anniversary of the iconic concert this Sunday. The musical, which debuted earlier this year to acclaim, chronicles the incredible story of how Geldof and a group of artists came together in 1985 to stage the ground-breaking event that raised millions for famine relief.
The Official Charts Company praised the release for bringing together a staggering 17 artists and recreating a track list that includes no fewer than eight UK No.1 singles and eight No.2s. The album features faithful renditions of many of the era-defining songs performed at the original Live Aid concerts in London and Philadelphia.
Geldof, who fronted both The Boomtown Rats and the Band Aid charity supergroup, accepted the award on behalf of the production and the cast. In his typically direct style, he reflected on the enduring impact of Live Aid, saying:
"It’s remarkable to see how that day still resonates, not just in memory but in music. To have these songs brought to life again in a new way is a reminder of what we can achieve when music has a purpose. This award isn’t just about then, it’s about now, and the power of what people can do when they care enough to try."
The album includes newly recorded versions of hits such as Do They Know It’s Christmas?, Dancing in the Street, We Are the Champions, and I Don’t Like Mondays, all performed by the talented cast of the musical. Fans can expect a mix of authenticity and fresh theatrical energy as the iconic songs are reimagined for a new generation.
The recognition from the Official Charts Company underscores how Live Aid remains one of the most significant cultural and humanitarian milestones in modern history, both for its immediate impact and its lasting legacy on global charitable initiatives.
As the 40th anniversary approaches this weekend, music fans around the world are reflecting on the unifying power of the 1985 event. Millions of viewers tuned in live across the globe to watch some of the biggest names in music, including Queen, U2, David Bowie, Elton John and, of course, Geldof himself, perform on two stages for a common cause.
The Just for One Day cast recording is available to stream and purchase from today, giving fans a chance to relive the unforgettable music of that day while discovering the stories behind the songs in a theatrical context.
For more information and to order the album, visit the musical’s official website or your preferred music retailer.