Macklemore Removed From Ed Sheeran’s US Tour After Pro-Palestine Chants

NEW YORK: US rapper Macklemore has been removed from British singer Ed Sheeran’s US tour after he voiced support for Palestine and led chants calling for Palestinian freedom during a concert in New Jersey, according to the artist.

Macklemore said the decision followed his performance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on September 4, where he expressed support for Palestinians and led the crowd in chanting “Free Palestine.”

Macklemore Says Difficult Discussions Took Place

In a post on Instagram, Macklemore said there had been “some difficult conversations” between him and Sheeran during the previous week.

He did not provide further details about the nature of those discussions.

The rapper has for years publicly expressed support for Palestinians and criticised Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and its policies in the occupied West Bank.

Touring Group Confirms Decision

Messina Touring Group, which is involved in the tour, said discussions had taken place with relevant stakeholders before the decision was made.

The company said Macklemore would not perform at the remaining concerts on the tour.

Ed Sheeran, however, said the decision was not made by him.

The singer did not provide further details about who made the final decision.

Macklemore’s Longstanding Palestine Advocacy

Macklemore has repeatedly spoken publicly about the situation in Gaza and Palestinian rights.

He has criticised Israel’s military operations in Gaza and its continued occupation of Palestinian territories.

The Israeli-American Council has also previously launched a campaign targeting Macklemore over his public statements on the conflict.

The latest development has renewed debate over the intersection of political expression and major international music tours, particularly as artists face decisions over whether and how to address the war in Gaza during live performances.

Macklemore’s removal means he will not appear at the remaining US shows on Sheeran’s current tour, while the circumstances surrounding the decision remain a subject of public discussion.