Macklemore Dropped From Ed Sheeran's US Tour Over Pro-Palestine Remarks

American rapper Macklemore has been removed from the remaining dates of Ed Sheeran's US tour following his public support for Palestine during recent concerts. Macklemore performed at two shows with Sheeran at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey over Labor Day weekend. During these appearances, he advocated for a free Palestine and performed his song "Hind's Hall," inspired by student protests at Columbia University. He also addressed Jewish audience members, stating that criticizing Israel, apartheid, and genocide is not an attack on them.

Following these performances, the American-Israeli Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) launched a petition demanding Macklemore's removal from the tour. The petition argued that his statements were one-sided, lacked context, and presented controversial claims to a large audience. Messina Touring Group, the promoter for the US leg of the tour, stated that several venues refused to host Macklemore, citing risks of show cancellations and impacting hundreds of thousands of attendees. Consequently, Macklemore will not perform at the seven remaining stadium shows across the country.

Macklemore claims the decision was influenced by pressure from stadium owners, specifically mentioning Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots. According to the rapper, Kraft contacted Sheeran and other stadium owners, indicating that Macklemore's presence would lead to venue cancellations. Macklemore expressed understanding of Sheeran's difficult position, noting their 13-year friendship, but affirmed his commitment to his stance, stating, "There is no neutral position between the oppressor and the oppressed." He believes the current conflict's visibility is amplified by the tour's scale and Sheeran's large audience.

The rapper also addressed accusations of antisemitism, acknowledging its existence but arguing it should not be used to shield Israel from criticism. Ed Sheeran has not publicly commented on Macklemore's removal. Previously, Macklemore faced criticism for his pro-Palestine stance, with singer Pink publicly opposing his position.