Palestine Benefit Tour
Macklemore Announces Palestine Benefit Tour Following Removal From Ed Sheeran's Shows
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Key Points
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A Live Nation press release said the tour’s proceeds would benefit several named groups: Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace and UNRWA USA.
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Other artists on Sheeran’s tour—including Finneas, Aaron Rowe and Beoga—also left after Macklemore was dropped.
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Macklemore was removed after remarks at a New Jersey show, where he said he wanted to use stadium performances to say “Free Palestine”; he had been scheduled for eight more Sheeran shows.
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Macklemore said, “Being apolitical during a genocide doesn’t work anymore,” and argued that artists were being asked to use their platforms for more than entertainment.
Macklemore announced a three-city "Free Palestine" tour after 7News reported he was dropped as an opening act on Ed Sheeran's U.S. Loop Tour. The rapper made pro-Palestinian remarks at a New Jersey show, saying he wanted to use stadium stages to declare "Free Palestine." Happy Magazine confirmed the tour will start in Dublin, then move to Paris and London, with additional U.S. dates coming soon.
Times of India reported all proceeds will benefit Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA. Macklemore said, "Being apolitical during a genocide doesn't work anymore," arguing artists must use their platforms for more than entertainment.
Why Macklemore Was Removed From Sheeran's Tour
Phil Star Life reported Macklemore made pro-Palestinian comments during a performance at the New Jersey show. He had eight more Sheeran dates scheduled but was dropped after his remarks. CBS8 noted other artists on the Loop Tour—including Finneas, Aaron Rowe, and Beoga—also left in solidarity.
Macklemore's Argument About Artist Silence
Macklemore argued that powerful venue owners are using their control to prevent artists from speaking on stage. He said he wanted to address Gaza during performances but was blocked. The rapper framed the dispute as a broader issue: artists being told to stay silent on major issues.
Sheeran's Response and Stance on Gaza
Ed Sheeran said tour organizers made the decision to drop Macklemore, and that he tried to find a resolution. Times of India reported Sheeran also criticized Israel's treatment of Gaza residents, though he did not take Macklemore's side publicly.
Israeli Officials Reject Genocide Claims
Israeli officials reject accusations that their military actions in Gaza amount to genocide. They say they are acting in self-defense against threats in the region. The dispute between Macklemore and the tour organizers reflects wider debate over the conflict.
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