More Artists Quit Ed Sheeran Tour After Macklemore's Removal

Several opening acts for Ed Sheeran's current tour have announced their withdrawal following the removal of rapper Macklemore. Macklemore was reportedly dropped from the tour after expressing support for Palestinians during one of his opening performances.

Irish singer Aaron Rowe stated on Instagram that as Irish people, they are "too familiar with genocide, forced starvation and violent occupation" and cannot stand by while billionaires silence "justified voices" against what he called "genocide by Israel and the savage murder of children."

Irish band Beoga also announced their departure, identifying as activists committed to justice and members of "Irish Artists for Palestine." American rapper Macklemore, during his opening set in New Jersey, called for the liberation of Palestine and performed his protest song "Hind's Hall."

American artist Finneas and Danish band Lukas Graham also declared their withdrawal. Finneas wrote that artists should not be silenced for speaking for the oppressed, and Lukas Graham stated that money should not dictate who can speak or acknowledge suffering.

Ed Sheeran addressed Macklemore's removal, clarifying that the decision was made by producers and venue owners who threatened to cancel the shows entirely due to Macklemore's statements. Sheeran explained he tried to mediate but the producers made the final call. He described the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a human tragedy but prefers to keep his concerts apolitical to serve as a safe, unifying space for a diverse audience, including children. He emphasized his public silence is not indifference but a choice to build bridges through music and unity, and that he avoided canceling the entire tour to protect fans and the livelihoods of his crew.

Macklemore, in his own statement, said he and Sheeran are not the victims, but rather the Palestinian people. He acknowledged that Sheeran was in a difficult position, with his non-political stance challenged. Macklemore stated that Sheeran told him the phrases "Free Palestine" and the Palestinian flag were offensive to many people he spoke with, and that Sheeran couldn't overcome his public "I don't take sides" stance. Macklemore added that taking sides can have financial consequences, which he has experienced, but he needed the two opportunities to speak to large audiences.