Rapper Macklemore has been dropped from Ed Sheeran's US tour after making political comments about the conflict in Gaza during performances.
Key facts
- •Macklemore performed at MetLife Stadium on 4 September and the following night.
- •The rapper performed his song "Hind's Hall" while showing video footage of Gaza.
- •Tour promoter Messina Touring Group stated that venues refused to host Macklemore.
- •Robert Kraft banned the rapper from Gillette Stadium, citing concerns over hate speech.
- •Macklemore stated he had "difficult conversations" with Ed Sheeran before being dropped.
- •Singer Pink faced public backlash after criticizing Macklemore's stage comments.
Rapper Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Haggerty, has been removed from Ed Sheeran's US tour following pro-Palestinian comments made on stage. The artist had been serving as the opening act for the tour but faced criticism from Jewish groups after speaking about the conflict in Gaza during two concerts at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
By the numbers
Controversy and tour removal
The controversy began on 4 September when Macklemore performed his song "Hind's Hall," which criticizes Israel's military actions, while displaying footage of Gaza on stage. He told the audience he wanted to stand in stadiums to say "Free Palestine." Following the performance, groups including StopAntisemitism and the Israeli-American Council criticized the rapper, with the latter petitioning for his removal from the tour. Macklemore confirmed his departure in a statement on Instagram, noting that he and Sheeran reached a "fundamental disagreement" after a week of conversations. Messina Touring Group, the tour promoter, stated that venues had indicated they would not allow the rapper to perform, citing concerns that his presence could lead to tour cancellations.
Responses and venue bans
Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts, confirmed he banned Macklemore from his venue, accusing the rapper of using "hate speech" and engaging in "antisemitic rhetoric." Macklemore rejected accusations of antisemitism in his statement, arguing that such claims are used to enforce silence and protect Israel from accountability. He maintained that there is no neutral position regarding the conflict. The situation also involved singer Pink, who faced backlash after reposting criticism of Macklemore's stage conduct. Pink later issued a statement clarifying that she does not speak for any government, while criticizing the use of violent imagery and political messaging in front of families at a music concert.
Timeline
- 7 October 2023Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel.
- 4 SeptemberMacklemore performed at MetLife Stadium and made pro-Palestinian comments.
- The next nightMacklemore returned to the stage and addressed Jewish audience members.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by BBC Entertainment & Arts.
