Macklemore is set to embark on his own tour following his removal as an opening act for Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour leg, with all proceeds from the performances going to support Palestinians. The decision to drop Macklemore came after venue owners in the U.S. threatened to cancel Sheeran’s shows if the rapper continued as his opener. Macklemore, a long-time advocate for Palestinian rights, has faced backlash for his pro-Palestinian statements made during performances.
In response to being removed from Sheeran’s tour, Macklemore took to Instagram to express his thoughts, highlighting the importance of allowing diverse voices on stage without censorship. He announced upcoming performances in Dublin, Paris, and London under the banner of the Free Palestine Tour, with more dates in the U.S. to be revealed soon.
The shows are aimed at raising funds for various Palestinian aid organizations, including Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA. The rapper emphasized the significance of artists using their platforms to support causes they believe in, even if it comes with consequences.
The controversy surrounding Macklemore’s performances, where he voiced support for Palestine, led to his removal from the Loop Tour. Amidst the fallout, other supporting acts on the tour withdrew in solidarity with Macklemore. Sheeran, addressing the situation on social media, explained the pressures from venue owners to remove Macklemore from the lineup.
Following his removal, Macklemore pledged to donate his earnings from the tour to humanitarian organizations aiding Gaza, challenging billionaire businessman Robert Kraft to do the same. In response, Kraft committed to donating $2 million to the region. Sheeran, at his first tour stop post the controversy, expressed regret to fans for the situation and asserted his stance as a musician rather than an activist.
