Macklemore Addresses Removal from Ed Sheeran’s Tour over Remarks
Rapper Macklemore has publicly responded to his removal from the remaining U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour. This decision came after backlash regarding his pro-Palestinian remarks made during performances. In an Instagram statement, Macklemore cited New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft as a key figure behind his exit, alleging that Kraft pressured other stadium owners to drop him. He did not solely attribute the decision to Sheeran or Pink, who had also criticized his comments.
“I’m not sure how to start this. So I’m going to speak from the heart and share the truth. Ed Sheeran and his team have made the decision to remove me from The Loop tour,” Macklemore wrote.
Macklemore, legally named Ben Haggerty, recounted that Sheeran informed him Kraft had said he would be barred from Gillette Stadium. Gillette Stadium is owned by Kraft’s company. Kraft reportedly influenced other stadium owners, resulting in an ultimatum: if Macklemore remained on the tour, Sheeran could not perform at their venues.
Macklemore also discussed private conversations with Sheeran, noting their 13-year friendship. According to Macklemore, Sheeran received feedback stating that the phrase “Free Palestine” and the Palestinian flag had upset people. Despite supporting his friend, Macklemore challenged Sheeran’s neutral stance and emphasized that neither he, Sheeran, nor Pink were victims of the situation. He expressed hope that their friendship would endure.
“I hope this isn’t the end of my relationship with Ed. Thirteen years of friendship doesn’t disappear because of one painful disagreement,” Macklemore added.
Macklemore explained that his message had been consistent for three years, but the scale of Sheeran’s tour made it more contentious. He argued that supporting Palestinian liberation became too risky on a large stage. Macklemore stressed the importance of standing against oppression and highlighted the dire situation Palestinian people face, mentioning over 20,000 children killed in Gaza alone.
He criticized how accusations of antisemitism are used to silence criticism of Israel, noting the legitimate issue of antisemitism is being weaponized. He recalled his brother Omar’s words, “لا شكر على واجب” (La shukra ala wajeb), meaning “There is no thanks for a duty,” emphasizing that their cause is a duty, not an act of bravery.
Macklemore concluded that, while his comments might have cost him performance opportunities, they successfully redirected focus back to Palestine. He expressed his willingness to continue dialogue with Sheeran and encouraged ongoing education about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
This story is developing. Updates will follow.