More Artists Quit Ed Sheeran Tour After Macklemore's Removal

Several artists performing as opening acts on Ed Sheeran's current tour have announced their withdrawal in recent days. This wave of departures follows the removal of rapper Macklemore from the tour after he expressed pro-Palestinian sentiments during one of his performances.

Among those leaving is Irish singer Aaron Rowe, who stated on Instagram that as Irish people, they are "too familiar with genocide, forced starvation and violent occupation." He added, "I cannot stand by and allow billionaires exploiting their positions of power to silence justified voices of those speaking out against the genocide being carried out by Israel and highlighting the savage murder of children."

The Irish band Beoga also announced their departure, explaining in a social media post that as "Irish people who understand colonialism" and "founding members of the 'Irish Artists for Palestine' movement," they are committed to justice and will continue to be so.

Rapper Macklemore, who was removed from the tour, addressed his situation in a statement. He clarified, "I am not the victim. Ed Sheeran is not the victim. We have careers, money, opportunities, security, and audiences around the world. The victims are the Palestinian people, the men, women, and children who have been killed, starved, torn from their homes, and forced to live alongside unimaginable violence."

Macklemore also shared details of his conversation with Sheeran, noting that Sheeran felt the phrase "Free Palestine" and the Palestinian flag were offensive to many people he had spoken with. Sheeran, Macklemore explained, struggled to overcome his public stance of "I don't take sides," which Macklemore acknowledged can come at a cost, including lost deals and performances. Macklemore stated he lost two of his ten scheduled opening slots but felt compelled to use those opportunities to speak out.