Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran’s Loop tour after speaking in support of Palestine. Macklemore opened for Ed Sheeran at MetLife Stadium on September 4 and 5. During his set list, he gave speech where he said “Free Palestine” and, “To all of my Jewish brothers and sisters, criticism of Israel, criticism of apartheid, being against genocide, it in no way is criticism of you.”
Following this statement he was removed from the Loop Tour after Robert Kraft, the owner of Gillette Stadium, allegedly told Ed Sheeran that Macklemore was not allowed to perform at the September 25 show. Macklemore also claimed that Kraft rallied other stadium owners and told Sheeran that if Macklemore remained on the tour, they would not host him at their venues.
Macklemore mentioned that he and Sheeran talked, and he told Sheeran that there is a fundamental disconnect if people find the words “ Free Palestine” more offensive than the tens of thousands children that are being killed.
@antoniaa.rosee this is the full video of macklemore’s speech metlife night 2. i mainly went to this concert just to see macklemore & there were many supporters but just as many haters (like the fucking maga fuck screaming boo). it is disgusting what ed and these venues have done. what a privilege it was to see macklemore live and speak up for those who cannot. from the river to the sea, palestine will be free. they will not silence us! 🇵🇸🍉 #freepalestine #macklemore #edsheeran #metlifestadium ♬ original sound – antoniaa.rosee
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Sheeran made a statement following Macklemore post claiming that the decision was made by the promoters and not him. “I respect Macklemore’s strength of purpose to stand up and shout for what he believes, However, there is room for multiple approaches to the same end: peace. I choose to use my fame and platform to be a place of safety and sanctuary, to maintain diplomacy and keep conversations open, not closed.”
Following Macklemore’s removal and Sheeran’s statement, remaining opening acts have removed themselves from the tour, standing in solidarity summarizing that artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed
This has sparked conversations among artists, including previous tour openers, about the importance of awareness, solidarity, and using their platforms to speak out against genocide. It has also ignited a larger conversation about freedom of speech and the ability of musicians to express their political and social views without facing professional consequences.
Photo courtesy of social media
