Macklemore Removed From Ed Sheeran’s US Tour After Pro-Palestinian Remarks

Macklemore Removed From Ed Sheeran’s US Tour After Pro-Palestinian Remarks

American rapper Macklemore has continued to face professional repercussions following his outspoken support for Palestinians, with his latest controversy resulting in his removal from the remaining U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour.

Macklemore was removed from the tour after making pro-Palestinian remarks during his performances at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on September 4 and 5, including a “Free Palestine” message and a performance of his protest song Hind’s Hall.

Messina Touring Group, the promoter of Sheeran’s U.S. tour, said venues on upcoming dates had indicated that they would not allow concerts to proceed with Macklemore on the lineup, creating a risk that the shows could be cancelled. Macklemore had been scheduled to perform at eight of the remaining 10 U.S. dates.

Sheeran later said the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the tour promoter rather than by him, adding that stadium owners had pressured the promoter over the rapper’s continued participation.

The decision was followed by further withdrawals from the tour. Supporting acts including Finneas, Lukas Graham, Aaron Rowe and Beoga subsequently announced that they would no longer participate in upcoming dates, citing solidarity with Macklemore and support for the right of artists to speak about the situation in Palestine.

The latest development is not the first time Macklemore has faced professional consequences following controversial public statements. In September 2024, he was removed from the lineup of Las Vegas’ Neon City Festival, shortly after being announced as a headliner. Organisers said he would no longer perform due to “unforeseen circumstances.”

The decision came days after Macklemore performed at a Palestine benefit event in Seattle, where he made a controversial remark about the United States. He subsequently addressed the comment publicly while maintaining his support for Palestinians.

Macklemore has continued to publicly advocate for Palestinians despite the criticism and professional fallout surrounding his statements. He has also pledged $1 million from his tour earnings to humanitarian organisations supporting Palestinians.

The developments have renewed debate over the boundaries between artists’ political expression, venue policies and commercial decisions within the music industry.

Macklemore Removed From Ed Sheeran’s US Tour After Pro-Palestinian Remarks