Macklemore Says He Was Dropped from Sheeran's Tour Over Political Speech
Macklemore alleges he was removed from Ed Sheeran's U.S. tour after venues threatened to cancel shows over his pro-Palestine remarks. He claims Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, pressured other venue owners to force his removal. Macklemore stated that Sheeran was in a difficult position and that his usual apolitical stance was being challenged.
The dispute centers on the phrase "Free Palestine," which Macklemore uttered during his two opening performances before being removed. Messina Touring Group, an AEG subsidiary, confirmed that multiple stadiums refused to host concerts with him on the bill. Beyond Gillette Stadium, venues in Philadelphia, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Charlotte, Arlington, and Tampa reportedly joined the objection.
Macklemore noted he has voiced support for Palestine on stage for nearly three years without issue, suggesting the heightened visibility of a stadium tour triggered the backlash. He described Sheeran as caught between public pressure and their friendship, while Pink separately expressed discomfort as a Jewish mother. Macklemore insisted the disagreement would not end their bond.
This controversy may reshape how artists approach political expression on major tours. Venue owners and promoters could become more cautious about booking acts with outspoken views, potentially chilling free speech in live music. Fans may face divided loyalties between artists they admire, while the incident could embolden other performers to speak out or retreat further into neutrality. The episode highlights the commercial pressures that increasingly shape cultural events.