US artists leave Ed Sheeran’s tour in support of Macklemore
In the United States, several musicians announced they were withdrawing from the remaining concerts of Ed Sheeran’s tour after rapper Macklemore was removed from the lineup. According to Anadolu Agency, the performers supported the rapper over his public statements in support of Palestinians.
Musicians withdraw from the tour
Singer-songwriter Finneas said on Instagram that he would not perform on the remaining dates of Sheeran’s tour. He stressed that artists should not be forced into silence over statements supporting oppressed people and expressed support for the Palestinian people.
Irish singer Aaron Rowe, who was one of the opening acts, also declined further participation. He said he could not continue touring while a billionaire used his influence to silence those who support Palestinians. Rowe called Sheeran a friend and said his decision was influenced by his Irish background and the history of resistance to colonization.
Irish folk band Beoga, which was the backing band on the tour, also announced its withdrawal. The musicians said they could not continue performing at venues where support for Palestinians is silenced, and also said they had seen Macklemore’s performance at MetLife Stadium and supported his position.
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Statements by Lukas Graham and Ms Rachel
Danish pop-soul band Lukas Graham apologized to fans and confirmed its withdrawal from the tour. Frontman Lukas Forchhammer said money should not determine whose suffering society can speak about and called for not remaining silent about the war, civilian deaths, and children’s right to grow up.
Children’s entertainer Ms Rachel criticized Sheeran’s decision on social media. She said the singer had lost an opportunity to show that artists cannot be forced to punish colleagues for supporting Palestinians. In her post, Ms Rachel called the situation in Gaza genocide and claimed that more than 20,000 children had been killed there.
Reason for Macklemore’s removal
According to Anadolu Agency, Macklemore was removed from the remaining dates of the Loop Tour after New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who owns Gillette Stadium, objected to his onstage statements in support of Palestinians. In particular, earlier this month during a performance at MetLife Stadium, the rapper called for a “free Palestine.”
Macklemore has repeatedly publicly criticized Israel over the war in Gaza, calling its actions genocide, and expressed solidarity with Palestinians.
