Macklemore reiterates pro-Palestine message at first post-Sheeran tour show
Macklemore used his first concert since being removed from Ed Sheeran’s tour to reiterate support for Palestine and other affected communities, while criticizing ICE. During the Red Rocks set, he called for freedom for Palestine, Sudan, Congo, Lebanon and Haiti and said his message would remain one of love. He has since scheduled a sold-out benefit tour across the UK and Europe.
At Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre on October 22, Macklemore performed 17 songs in his first concert after being dropped from Ed Sheeran’s North American “Loop” dates over his onstage pro-Palestine remarks. During the set he named Palestine, Sudan, Congo, Lebanon and Haiti, and referenced people in America affected by ICE.
He later announced benefit shows in the UK and Europe, which sold out; he said the response left him “blown away.” The dispute began at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, where he performed “Hind’s Hall” with Gaza footage. After Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft objected, Macklemore was removed; Sheeran’s remaining support acts and backing band withdrew in solidarity.
The episode could affect touring musicians, support crews, venue owners and fans by making political statements onstage a more visible point of negotiation. It may also influence how benefit concerts and solidarity campaigns are organized, and could intensify public debate over the boundaries between artistic expression and commercial partnerships. Audiences and humanitarian groups may see both greater fundraising attention and sharper polarization, depending on how future shows and venue decisions unfold.