Macklemore Announces Solo 'Free Palestine Tour' After Sheeran Show Removal

American rapper Macklemore has announced a new European tour titled 'Free Palestine Tour,' with shows planned in Paris, Dublin, and London. Proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to organizations supporting Palestinians. This announcement follows his removal from Ed Sheeran's U.S. tour after stadiums refused to host him due to his pro-Palestinian statements.

Macklemore's removal stemmed from his "Free Palestine" chant and performance of his song "Hind's Hall" at MetLife Stadium in early September. Pressure mounted for his removal, with prominent critics including Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and Gillette Stadium, and the Israeli-American Council. Macklemore alleged that stadium owners pressured Sheeran and the tour producers, specifically accusing Kraft of influencing other venue owners.

Messina Touring Group confirmed that several venues would not allow Macklemore to perform. Ed Sheeran clarified that the decision was not his but originated from the venues and producers. Macklemore stated that the recent events highlight a shift in artists' engagement with political and social issues, asserting that artists must use their platforms to express their views.

In an Instagram post, Macklemore wrote, "We are in 2026. Being apolitical during genocide is no longer an option. People are asking artists to stand up, educate themselves, and be part of the community. To use the stage for more than just entertainment. To fight back when a call for a free Palestine is met with attempts to silence."

He further commented that the situation extends beyond a single artist or venue, warning that when billionaires can dictate which voices are permissible, everyone should be concerned. Macklemore added that his now-free schedule has allowed him to connect with artists who have supported Palestine and used their platforms for solidarity, noting, "Artists who understand that our platforms have very little meaning if we are only willing to use them when it is safe." Details of the new tour are still being finalized, but Macklemore views it as a "moment of momentum" and an opportunity for continued action. This initiative follows his prior commitment to donate $1 million from his Sheeran tour earnings to Palestinian aid organizations.