Ed Sheeran says dropping Macklemore from US concert tour was not his decision
Summary
Ed Sheeran says the decision to remove Macklemore from his US tour was made by the promoter, not by him, after the rapper’s pro-Palestinian remarks drew backlash. Several opening acts and his touring band also quit the tour in solidarity, while debate over the comments has intensified among artists and advocacy groups.
Key Points
- Ed Sheeran said Macklemore’s removal from the US leg of his tour was the promoter’s decision, not his own.
- Several opening acts, including Finneas and Lukas Graham, and Sheeran’s touring band Beoga said they were quitting the tour in support of Macklemore and Palestinians.
- The controversy stems from Macklemore’s pro-Palestinian comments and his long-standing criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank.
- Supporters and critics argued over whether Macklemore’s remarks were political expression or antisemitic, with Macklemore denying the accusations.
