Ed Sheeran is facing the exit of his supporters during his "Loop" tour in North and South America. This situation arose after Macklemore was removed from the concert lineup.
Removal of Macklemore and Reactions
Macklemore announced on Monday that he was removed from the tour due to his supportive stance on Palestine. Ed Sheeran distanced himself from this decision on Tuesday, stating that it was made by the tour organizers.
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Following the announcement of Macklemore's removal, Irish artists Aaron Rowe and the group Beoga exited the tour. The Danish group Lukas Graham and American artist Finneas also announced their withdrawal from the tour. Finneas wrote on Instagram: "Artists should not remain silent when speaking for the oppressed. I have decided to leave the tour and support Palestine and its people."
Artists' Statements
Aaron Rowe wrote on Instagram that he did not take this decision lightly and referenced his friendship with Ed Sheeran, thanking him for changing his life. He added: "As the people of Ireland, we are well aware of genocide, forced famine, and violent occupation." The group Beoga also referenced their Irish background, stating: "As the people of Ireland, we understand what colonialism is." Lukas Graham emphasized that this decision was difficult, writing: "Money does not give you ownership over the conversation. No one should decide who gets to speak or which sufferings we should recognize based on their bank balance." This remark referred to billionaire Robert Kraft's role in Macklemore's removal.
Macklemore, during a concert held on September 5 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, shouted "Freedom for Palestine!" while performing his protest song "Hind's Hall." This song is about a 5-year-old Palestinian girl who was killed in the Gaza war in 2024.
Subsequently, Robert Kraft stated that Macklemore's removal was a result of his recent comments and a broader history of anti-Semitic remarks that, in our view, harmed the Jewish community. Ed Sheeran also emphasized that Macklemore's removal was a decision by the organizers, and he would never take sides in these matters.
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