Macklemore has revealed plans for his own tour following his removal as an opening act for Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour leg. The decision to drop Macklemore came after venue owners in the U.S. threatened to cancel Sheeran’s shows if the rapper continued as an opener. Known for his pro-Palestinian stance, Macklemore has consistently voiced his support for Palestinians over the years.
Expressing his thoughts on Instagram, Macklemore emphasized the significance of his situation, stating that when influential figures dictate whose voices are heard, it should raise concerns for everyone. With his schedule now open, the rapper announced three upcoming performances in Dublin, Paris, and London under the banner of the Free Palestine Tour, featuring Macklemore and other artists.
In a bid to support Palestinian causes, the shows will donate proceeds to various organizations aiding Palestinians, such as the Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA. Macklemore highlighted the importance of artists using their platforms to stand in solidarity with causes they believe in, even if it involves risks.
The controversy surrounding Macklemore’s support for Palestine unfolded during his performances on Sheeran’s Loop Tour. His repeated chants of “Free Palestine” and expressions of solidarity with Palestinians drew criticism from Israeli advocacy groups. Despite facing backlash, Macklemore stood by his beliefs, emphasizing the need for equality for all humans.
Following his removal from the tour, Macklemore put out a statement sympathizing with Sheeran while criticizing the decision as influenced by political pressures. The situation led to other supporting acts and the backing band dropping out of their performances in solidarity with Macklemore. Sheeran, explaining the circumstances on social media, confirmed that venue owners threatened to cancel shows if Macklemore remained on the lineup.
Macklemore pledged to donate his earnings from the tour to humanitarian organizations aiding Gaza, challenging billionaire Robert Kraft to do the same. In response, Kraft pledged $2 million to “aid in the region,” following Sheeran’s initiative. Sheeran later apologized to fans during his tour, expressing his discomfort with being seen as an activist musician.
With the Free Palestine Tour on the horizon, Macklemore continues to use his platform to support causes he believes in, despite facing opposition and controversy in the music industry.
