Rapper Macklemore has publicly addressed his removal from the U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour. This decision came after his pro-Palestinian remarks on stage led to significant backlash.
In a detailed Instagram post, Macklemore identified Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots, as the primary reason for his exclusion. Macklemore alleged that Kraft pressured other stadium owners to refuse to host him. He did not solely blame Sheeran or Pink, who had also criticized his comments.
“I’m not sure how to start this,” Macklemore wrote. “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.” Macklemore, also known as Ben Haggerty, explained that Sheeran informed him of Kraft’s call. Kraft stated Macklemore would be barred from Gillette Stadium, owned by Kraft’s company and a tour stop. Kraft reportedly rallied other stadium owners to demand Macklemore’s removal.
Macklemore detailed private discussions with Sheeran, whom he has known for 13 years, emphasizing their friendship and respect. Sheeran mentioned feedback indicating that “Free Palestine” and the Palestinian flag upset many. Despite this, Macklemore stood by his remarks, clarifying he did not see himself, Sheeran, or Pink as victims.
I hope this isn’t the end of my relationship with Ed. Thirteen years of friendship doesn’t disappear because of one painful disagreement,he added.
Macklemore reflected on why his long-standing message now sparked controversy, suspecting it was due to the large platform provided by Sheeran’s tour. He perceived “Free Palestine” as a risk to Sheeran’s typically apolitical stance.
Sheeran admitted the phrase and flag upset some people, yet Macklemore expressed a fundamental disconnect with those more offended by his words than by the violence in Palestine. Macklemore remained firm that neutrality is impossible between oppressor and oppressed, highlighting the ongoing violence in Palestine.
He argued that accusations of antisemitism often silence criticisms of Israel. True antisemitism is genuine, he emphasized, and should not shield Israel from accountability. Macklemore reiterated his commitment to voicing support for Palestinian liberation as a duty, not an act of bravery.
Concluding his statement, Macklemore hoped for continued dialogue with Sheeran and an understanding of neutrality’s role in global conflicts. His focus remains on raising awareness for Palestine, regardless of personal or professional consequences.
Contact Newsweek editors Jenna deJong and Sam Wilson for updates on this story.
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