Ed Sheeran’s current tour experienced significant disruption following remarks made by opening act Macklemore during a concert at MetLife Stadium on Sept. 5. The rapper performed a song dedicated to a Palestinian child killed in Gaza and stated “free Palestine,” prompting swift backlash from organizations including the Anti-Defamation League and the Israeli-American Council.
Venue owners and the tour’s promoter subsequently moved to remove Macklemore from remaining dates. Macklemore claimed that Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft led efforts to exclude him, and Kraft confirmed the decision, stating he would not provide a platform for what he characterized as hate speech. Sheeran attributed the decision to promoters and venues rather than himself. The artist stated he holds personal views on the conflict but does not wish his concerts to become political forums.
The controversy escalated when multiple artists withdrew from the tour in solidarity with Macklemore. Finneas, Aaron Rowe, Lukas Graham, and the band Beoga all announced they would no longer perform upcoming dates. Macklemore subsequently pledged to donate his earnings from the tour to organizations supporting Palestinians and challenged Kraft to do the same.
Music journalist Zach Schonfeld noted that the incident demonstrates the substantial influence venue owners hold over artistic expression. He highlighted broader tensions in American culture surrounding speech about Israel and Gaza, citing similar controversies involving other artists and filmmakers. Polling data indicated shifting American public opinion, with a July survey showing 43% of U.S. adults believe Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians.
Sheeran’s situation generated additional scrutiny when observers noted his previous public stances on other political issues, including statements of support for Ukraine and campaigns against racism in the United Kingdom. The artist’s attempt to maintain neutrality on the Gaza conflict was met with criticism online, with his upcoming Philadelphia performance notable for the absence of opening acts and previously scheduled performers.
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