Macklemore Responds to Tour Removal Over Pro-Palestinian Remarks

Rapper Macklemore has spoken out after being removed from the remaining U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour. His removal followed backlash over pro-Palestinian remarks he made onstage. In a detailed Instagram statement, Macklemore accused New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft of being the driving force behind his removal. Kraft allegedly pressured other stadium owners to refuse hosting him.

“Ed Sheeran and his team decided to remove me from The Loop tour,” Macklemore, whose real name is Ben Haggerty, wrote. He claimed Kraft had told Sheeran he would be barred from performing at Gillette Stadium, which Kraft’s company owns. Additionally, Kraft rallied other stadium owners to collectively decide against keeping Macklemore on the tour.

Macklemore shared details of private conversations with Sheeran, describing a 13-year friendship. Sheeran maintained a neutral stance publicly, explaining to Macklemore that his words “Free Palestine” and the Palestinian flag upset several people. Macklemore argued against neutrality, stressing the need for dialogue and the hope that their friendship might endure the disagreement.

“I hope this isn’t the end of my relationship with Ed,” Macklemore said, emphasizing the importance of continuing conversations about Palestine and neutrality. Newsweek has contacted Kraft for comment.

“I’m not sure how to start this. So I’m going to speak from the heart and share the truth. Ed Sheeran and his team have made the decision to remove me from The Loop tour. But before I get into it, I want to say something obvious. I am not a victim. Ed Sheeran and Pink are not victims. We have careers, money, opportunities, safety, and audiences around the world. Whatever consequences any of us face, we can go home to our families.”

Explaining the situation further, Macklemore highlighted that his pro-Palestinian remarks were consistent with what he had been expressing onstage for years. The issue arose because he was now on stage with a prominent artist in major venues in America. He noted the heightened risk at this exposure level, with the crowd showing strong support for Palestinian liberation, challenging Sheeran’s neutral position.

Macklemore pointed out the risks involved in taking sides, mentioning potential losses of money, brand deals, and relationships. He emphasized no neutral stance exists between oppressors and oppressed. With the conflict affecting countless lives, he stressed the importance of discussing the situation publicly and not allowing accusations of antisemitism to stifle criticism of the Israeli state.

Macklemore concluded by reflecting on his participation in the tour, saying that if his words cost him the stage but drew attention to Palestine, then it was a successful tour for him. He expressed hope that his relationship with Sheeran continues, advocating for ongoing learning and discussion about Palestine.