Ed Sheeran and Snow Patrol among acts who raised £12.2 million at Concert for Ukraine

The concert for Ukraine that was organised by ITV has now raised over £12 million for those in need. 

The star-studded ensemble that was hosted in Birmingham last night aimed not only to raise money but also to offer some hope to those in Ukraine right now. 

I sit in Kyiv bunker tonight , someone have put this Concert for Ukraine on computer . Maybe 50 people watch here , children , everyone . This touch me . Many people watch and support Ukraine . Thank you Britain . #ConcertForUkraine #Kyiv #SlavaUkraini #SlavaUkraine

— Люба Довженко ?? (@lubadovzhenko1) March 29, 2022

Two stories of Ukrainian refugees were told amid the performances, and it's clear to see from Twitter that the message of hope was deeply felt.  Stars such as Ed Sheeran, Camilla Cabello, Snow Patrol, Becky Hill, Emilé Sande, and Manic Street Preachers among others took to the stage for the benefit gig.  Tom Odell played his hit song Another Love which has become a song used by Ukrainians to raise awareness of their situation on TikTok.  Camilla Cabello and Ed Sheeran premiered their new song 'Bam Bam' together on the night. This set fans on Twitter off. 

Camila Cabello performing “Bam Bam” with Ed & adding a little twist to it ? #ConcertForUkraine pic.twitter.com/O4rhDsFdyY

— TheCamilaDaily Media (@TCDMedias) March 29, 2022

“My heart is breaking for the people of Ukraine. As refugees from Ukraine join millions of other displaced people around the globe, we all have a responsibility,” Camilla said.  Hosted by Ronan Kemp, ITV said it wished that; “The event will bring together huge names in music to spread a message of hope while the conflict in Europe continues.” Many of the acts showed support through their wardrobe choices, with Camilla Cabello wearing a stunning blue two-piece and Nile Rogers rocking a yellow and blue suit.  Jamala, who competed for Ukraine in the 2016 Eurovision, sang her song '1944' about her great grandmother who was forcibly deported from Crimea.  Jamala herself had to flee Ukraine at the start of the conflict, she told ITV "It was really hard, but I am here."  Ukrainian band, Antytila who is currently fighting on the frontlines in Ukraine, reached out to organisers to play at the benefit but their request was denied. 

The band might not be performing but they have a special message for the UK. #ConcertForUkraine @antytila_offic https://t.co/zUNPxvz9t7 pic.twitter.com/wwyjYg2aMk

— BBC Radio WM (@bbcwm) March 29, 2022

Organisers explained that they were only able to focus on humanitarian efforts and not political or military efforts.  The money raised will be going to the Disaster Emergency Committee, Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal and it will help provide aid for those in danger and hoping to leave the warzone.