Ed Sheeran issued a statement on Tuesday indicating that the decision to remove Macklemore from his upcoming US tour was made by the promoter. Following this decision, all remaining support acts on the tour, including Finneas, Aaron Rowe, Lukas Graham, and the Irish folk band Beoga, announced their withdrawal. Finneas stated, "Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed."
Sheeran clarified on Instagram that he would not engage in a public debate regarding Gaza and emphasized that he was not responsible for Macklemore's removal. He stated, "Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter's decision, it was not mine," and expressed his commitment to his fans and crew.
Earlier this month, Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Haggerty, made pro-Palestinian remarks during concerts in New Jersey, which drew criticism from Jewish groups and led to pressure on the tour promoters to remove him. In his statement, Sheeran mentioned that he had been in discussions with venues but that the Messina Touring Group ultimately decided to drop Macklemore.
Sheeran expressed his views on the Israel-Palestine conflict, stating he was "appalled" by the situation and recognized the suffering on both sides. He explained his choice to avoid political discussions during performances, noting that his audience includes young people who do not expect a political forum at his shows.
The controversy began on September 4, when Macklemore performed at Sheeran's concert and called for a "free Palestine," showing images of devastation in Gaza. His comments received backlash, leading to a petition for his removal from the tour.
Macklemore later addressed his audience, clarifying that criticism of Israel is not an attack on Jewish people. Following his removal, he stated that he empathized with Sheeran's position but criticized him for not taking a definitive stance. Macklemore emphasized that he believes there is no neutral position between the oppressor and the oppressed.
The tour promoter stated that they had been informed by venues that Macklemore would not be allowed to perform, which could lead to the cancellation of the tour. Many of the acts that withdrew cited the influence of billionaire Robert Kraft, who confirmed his decision to bar Macklemore, stating that his venue would not provide a platform for hate speech.
Macklemore acknowledged the challenges of taking a stand, stating that he had lost various opportunities as a result of his views but felt that raising awareness about Palestine was worth the cost.