Multiple performers have withdrawn from Ed Sheeran’s North and South American Loop Tour after rapper Macklemore was removed from the lineup. The cancellations followed Macklemore’s announcement that he was dropped due to his pro-Palestinian advocacy, a move that has ignited debate regarding free speech and political expression in the music industry.
Sheeran stated on Tuesday that the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the tour promoters rather than himself. However, several supporting artists chose to leave the tour in protest.
Among those departing are Irish musicians Aaron Rowe and the folk band Beoga, Danish group Lukas Graham, and American artist Finneas, brother of Billie Eilish. Finneas posted on Instagram, stating, “Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed.” He added that he stands with Palestine and its people.
Rowe expressed that his choice was not made lightly, acknowledging his friendship with Sheeran while invoking Ireland’s history of famine and occupation to contextualize his stance. Similarly, Beoga highlighted their Irish heritage and understanding of colonialism.
Lukas Graham emphasized that financial status should not dictate whose voices are heard. The band noted, “Money doesn’t give you the right to own the conversation,” appearing to reference billionaire Robert Kraft, whom Macklemore accused of orchestrating his ouster.
Macklemore revealed that he was removed after audiences heard him shout “Free Palestine!” during a September 5 performance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. During the event, he performed “Hind’s Hall,” a song addressing the death of a five-year-old Palestinian girl, Hind Rajab, who died in Gaza in 2024 after being unable to reach paramedics following an attack on her family. Israeli authorities recently ordered a criminal investigation into her death.
On Monday, Macklemore claimed that several venues along the tour route refused to allow him to perform, citing pressure from Kraft. The billionaire responded by accusing Macklemore of promoting antisemitic rhetoric and imagery that hurt the Jewish community.
Sheeran maintained that he intends to remain neutral in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He wrote that he seeks to use his platform to provide a sanctuary for fans and to keep diplomatic channels open, asserting that he would not abandon the tour crew or other artists who depend on the tour for their livelihood.
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