ARNAUD FINISTRE/AFP/GETTY IMAGES
Macklemore has been removed from the remaining U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour following controversial comments he made during recent performances supporting Palestine.
The rapper performed two shows at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on September 4 and 5 as part of Sheeran’s stadium tour. During his opening sets, Macklemore spoke about the ongoing conflict in Gaza and called for a “Free Palestine.”
He also performed his protest song “Hind’s Hall” while footage connected to Gaza and pro-Palestinian demonstrations played on screens behind him. His comments quickly sparked backlash online and calls for him to be removed from the tour.
Macklemore Removed From Remaining Tour Dates
On Monday, the promoter behind Sheeran’s U.S. tour confirmed that Macklemore will no longer perform on the remaining support dates.
Messina Touring Group said several venues had informed the promoter that they would not allow concerts to take place with Macklemore on the lineup. The promoter said keeping him on the tour could have resulted in cancellations affecting hundreds of thousands of fans.
Macklemore was scheduled to appear at eight of the remaining U.S. shows.
Among the venues reportedly involved are stadiums in Philadelphia, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Charlotte, Arlington, Tampa and Foxborough.
Macklemore Defends His Comments
Macklemore has stood by his decision to speak about the conflict from the stage.
During his second performance at MetLife Stadium, he addressed Jewish audience members and said his criticism of the Israeli government and his support for Palestinians were not intended as criticism of Jewish people.
He described his message as one centered on peace, equality and human dignity.
The controversy has continued to generate strong reactions from both supporters and critics of the rapper.
For Macklemore, however, the decision to speak out appears to have been worth the consequences. His removal from the tour means he will no longer perform at the remaining U.S. stadium dates with Sheeran.
Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour will continue, with other opening acts taking the stage for the remaining shows.