Why Macklemore Was Dropped From Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour After Pro‑Palestine Remarks

On September 4, Macklemore opened for Ed Sheeran at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. During his set he repeatedly chanted “Free Palestine” and performed his anti‑Israel song “Hind’s Hall,” accompanied by a slideshow of Gaza footage.

The next day, Messina Touring Group, the promoter of the U.S. leg of Sheeran’s Loop Tour, said several venues told them they would not allow a concert with Macklemore on the bill. Because of those refusals, the promoter removed him from the remaining U.S. dates.

Macklemore had been slated to appear at eight of the ten shows still left on the tour. Gillette Stadium’s owner, Patriots founder Robert Kraft, reportedly told Sheeran that Macklemore would not be permitted to perform there, citing concerns about hate speech and antisemitic rhetoric.

In an Instagram post, Macklemore doubled down on his stance, saying he stands by his “Free Palestine” message and hopes the dispute does not damage his friendship with Sheeran.

The incident shows how concert promoters and venue owners can intervene when an artist’s political statements are deemed risky. Their decisions can cancel performances, affect ticket sales, and reshape relationships between artists, promoters, and fans.

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