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Macklemore–Ed Sheeran tour controversy

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Macklemore in 2022
Ed Sheeran in 2022

In September 2026, English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran and his team removed American rapper Macklemore as a supporting act from Sheeran's Loop Tour after Macklemore's onstage pro-Palestine statements during two performances in New Jersey. The removal came after pressure from pro-Israel advocacy groups and venue owners, including American businessman and venue owner Robert Kraft. On September 14, Macklemore and Kraft published statements on social media articulating their views on the matter, with a statement from Sheeran published the following day. By September 15, all the remaining opening acts for the tour—including Aaron Rowe, Finneas, and Lukas Graham, as well as Irish band Beoga—had withdrawn in solidarity with Macklemore and the Palestinian people.

Background

Macklemore has expressed pro-Palestinian views during the Gaza war,[1] including signing the Artists4Ceasefire open letter[2] and saying that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.[3][4] In May 2024, he released "Hind's Hall", a protest song in support of the April 2024 Gaza solidarity protests at Columbia University and the "Hind's Hall" occupation of Hamilton Hall, renamed by protestors in honor of Hind Rajab, who was killed alongside members of her family by Israel Defense Forces soldiers in 2024.[5][6][7] All profits from the song were donated to UNRWA.[8] On August 24, 2026, Macklemore was confirmed as an opening act for Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour.[9][better source needed]

In 2014, Macklemore apologized after wearing a costume onstage which critics described as an antisemitic caricature.[10][11][12]

Macklemore speeches

On September 4, 2026, while opening for Ed Sheeran at MetLife Stadium, Macklemore made a speech where he declared "Free Palestine". The statement was followed by a performance of "Hind's Hall".[5] In his speech, he said, "The people all the way in Gaza to the occupied West Bank know that we have not forgotten about them. I say free Palestine. I say free Lebanon. Free Cuba to the Congo to Sudan to Iran".[13]

After this, representatives for multiple NFL team and stadium owners contacted Sheeran's promoter Messina Touring Group with concerns about hate speech, specifically the phrase "Free Palestine" and the song "Hind's Hall"; they were told in response that Macklemore would not mention Palestine on stage again.[14]

On the second night, Macklemore again declared "Free Palestine", and also addressed Jewish people in the audience, saying, "Criticism of Israel, criticism of apartheid, being against genocide, is in no way a criticism of you", adding that he wanted people in Gaza and the West Bank to know they had not been forgotten.[7][15][14] He also criticized the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying, "free all people in America living in fear over this terrorist organization".[7]

Removal of Macklemore

Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft (pictured in 2023)

On September 6, the Israeli-American Council petitioned for Ed Sheeran to remove Macklemore from his tour, stating on social media: "Ed Sheeran, do not allow your stage to be used to divide people or spread one-sided political propaganda!" The following day, Macklemore shared a video of his performance at the stadium with the caption: "Wanting all humans to be treated equal should never be controversial."[16]

American singer Pink reshared a post from the pro-Israel group StopAntisemitism criticizing Macklemore for his speech. The post described Macklemore's "Free Palestine" message as "anti-Israel propaganda", accused him of falsely describing Israel's actions as genocide, and characterised his appearance in a keffiyeh as an affront to Jewish fans attending the concert. Following backlash over this repost, Pink responded on September 11 that she was "standing up for [her] own people", as Pink is Jewish.[17] In response to Pink's actions regarding Macklemore's pro-Palestinian stance, a Change.org petition calling for her removal as a UNICEF ambassador had amassed more than 162,000 signatures by September 22.[needs update] The petition's organizers said UNICEF ambassadors should meet the "highest standards of neutrality and compassion" when addressing the impact of conflict on children.[18][19][20][21][needs update] Actor Javier Bardem shared multiple posts on Instagram in support of the petition.[21]

The Combat Antisemitism Movement also pressured for his removal, citing a May 2014 concert where he dressed up as a character with a prosthetic nose, which critics described as a Jewish caricature;[22][23] within days of the concert, Macklemore had apologized for wearing the costume and denied antisemitic intent.[24][22]

Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft called Sheeran and told him during a 40-minute conversation that he, along with fellow NFL owners Arthur Blank, David Tepper, and Jeffrey Lurie, considered Macklemore's comments to be hate speech and would cancel shows at their venues were Macklemore to stay on the tour.[14] On September 14, Messina Touring Group announced that Macklemore would no longer perform on the remaining U.S. dates, stating that several venues had refused to allow concerts to proceed with him on the lineup.[25]

Statements

Macklemore

Before I get into it, I want to say something that should be obvious. In this moment I think it matters. I am not a victim. Ed Sheeran is not a victim. Pink is not a victim. We have careers, money, opportunities, safety and audiences around the world. Whatever consequences any of us face for what we say, we get to go home to our families. The victims are the Palestinian people.

— Macklemore, September 14 2026[26]

On September 14, Macklemore announced his removal from the tour in an Instagram post nearly 1,000 words long.[15] He said it came after a week of "difficult conversations" with Sheeran that ended "in a place of fundamental disagreement."[15] In his statement, Macklemore said that he was not a victim, nor Sheeran or Pink, and that "The victims are the Palestinian people"."[26][27] Macklemore said that Sheeran had told him Robert Kraft, whose Kraft Group owns Gillette Stadium, had barred him from performing there and persuaded other stadium owners to issue a similar ultimatum.[28] Macklemore criticized Sheeran for not taking a stance on Gaza, writing: "Taking a side can cost you. Money, brand deals, sponsorships, festivals, private shows, relationships and access. I've lost all of those things. But there is no neutral position between the oppressor and the oppressed."[15]

On September 16, Macklemore announced that he would donate $1 million, his entire net earnings from Sheeran's tour, to six organizations supporting Palestinians: the Palestine Children's Relief Fund, HEAL Palestine, Gaza Soup Kitchen, Medical Aid for Palestinians, American Near East Refugee Aid, and the UNRWA USA National Committee.[29][30] He said he wanted to "bring the conversation back where it belongs," writing, "Whatever we disagree about, perhaps we can agree on this: Palestinian lives are worth protection. A Palestinian life is no less valuable than any life on this earth."[29] Macklemore challenged Kraft to match the donation;[29] later that day, Kraft announced a $2 million donation of his own without specifying the beneficiaries.[31]

In his statement, Macklemore said he wanted to "center the parents carrying their children into hospitals without the basic resources to treat them, and the physicians, paramedics, journalists and aid workers who keep going back in," as well as "the organizers and activists who have paid real costs for standing with Palestine," whose risk he said was "of a far different order than mine."[32][30] He described donating money as "one of the least costly forms of solidarity" available to him, saying he was doing so because the recipient organizations were "doing the work while much of the world debates it."[32] Macklemore added that "aid alone cannot address the conditions that make it necessary," calling the situation in Gaza and the West Bank "a manmade injustice" requiring "immediate political change."[32][30] He also referenced the death of 15-year-old Muhammad al-Zinati, whom was killed in an Israeli strike on September 15 while attempting to help an injured aid worker.[30][33]

Robert Kraft

I would welcome the opportunity to sit down with Macklemore and discuss the facts, because ultimately our goal is the same – peace for all people, an end to suffering, and an end to all hate, [...] Much of my time and attention for the last decade has been focused on the fight against antisemitism and hate of all kinds, and I feel a responsibility to stand up when I believe that line has been crossed,

— Robert Kraft, September 14 2026[34]

Hours after Macklemore's statement, Robert Kraft released a statement in which he spoke of his long fight against antisemitism, agreed with Macklemore on the suffering of the Palestinians, evoked the responsibility of Hamas, invited Macklemore to meet, and said they had "peace for all people" as a common goal.[13][12][34]

Kraft argued that support for Palestinians "should not come at the expense of the Jewish community or obscure the responsibility of Hamas, a United States and globally … designated terrorist organization whose horrific actions have caused immeasurable suffering for Palestinians and Israelis alike."[35] According to Adam Reilly, writing for WGBH, "Kraft did not dispute Macklemore's claims" and "seemed to allude to Macklemore's 2014 performance in a costume that was widely regarded as antisemitic in explaining Kraft's actions."[12][11] Kraft's statement did not address whether or not he had lobbied other stadium owners.[13][24]

The Washington Times reported that Kraft has donated tens of millions of dollars to organizations combating antisemitism, including more than $20 million to the "Stand Up to Jewish Hate" campaign.[36][32] The outlet also noted that, separate from Macklemore's claim that Kraft organized a pressure campaign among venue owners, several venues independently notified the tour's promoter that they would not host a show with Macklemore on the bill, and that Kraft had not addressed whether he had personally organized that pressure.[36]

Ed Sheeran

I am appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine. The suffering and pain caused on both sides is a human tragedy. There are too many wars across the world causing immeasurable pain, none of which should be tolerated

— Ed Sheeran, September 15 2026[37]

In a September 15 post on Instagram, Sheeran said he was appalled by the Israeli–Palestinian conflict describing it as a "human tragedy".[37] He added that Macklemore's removal was "the promoter's decision, it was not mine," referring to Messina Touring Group.[37][38][39] Sheeran added: "I choose to use my fame and platform to be a place of safety and sanctuary, to maintain diplomacy and keep conversations open, not closed".[39]

Sheeran also said that he was not complicit, that he has his own personal views, that not expressing them doesn't mean he doesn't have them; nor doesn't care or doesn't support causes in his own way.[40]

September 19

On September 19 at the Philadelphia stop on his tour, Sheeran described it as "one of the worst weeks of his life", and "you really find out who your friends are". He added "But the root of it is love. And if this tour ends, love doesn't win. Love doesn't win. You know? I can't let you guys down. That's why I'm here tonight, on my own, for you guys."[41]

Sheeran also talked about the issues for which Macklemore was removed for speaking about: "... this is a humanitarian issue and I cannot hide how I feel about it anymore." He said what happened in Israel on October 7 was "horrific and compounded centuries of Jewish pain" and what was happening in Gaza was "catastrophic and unjustifiable and disproportionate", mentioning the scale of devastation and loss of civilian lives, of children's lives; and systemic injustice in the West Bank. He also said he was "deeply worried" by the idea that venues would "pre-approve" content or performers.[42]

Other opening acts

On September 15, following Sheeran's statement, all remaining opening acts, including Finneas O'Connell, Aaron Rowe, and Lukas Graham, and Sheeran's backing band Beoga, dropped out.[43][44] Finneas said he was withdrawing because he believed artists should not be silenced for speaking in support of oppressed people and expressed support for Palestinians. Both Beoga and Rowe cited Irish history in their withdrawal statements, with the former stating that they were "Irish people who understand colonialism" while the latter stated that as "Irish people we know all too well about genocide, forced famine and violent occupation." Rowe and Graham both described their withdrawal as a difficult decision and expressed gratitude to Sheeran.[39][45] Several acts who had opened for Sheeran prior to Macklemore's opening at MetLife Stadium, including Myles Smith, Amble and BIIRD, have come out with support for Macklemore and the people of Palestine.[46]

Rowe made an additional statement on the 19th, stating that criticism was being wrongly directed at Sheeran instead of Kraft.[47]

Impacts

In the days following the controversy, streams of Macklemore, Aaron Rowe, and Beoga's music significantly increased.[48] Streaming numbers of Sheeran's music did not significantly change.[48] Gazan artists Anne Redwan and Qusai ⁠al-Helo painted a mural of Macklemore on a destroyed building in Gaza City.[49]

Guitar Center contest

On September 14, American musical instrument retailer Guitar Center launched their "Open for Legends" series of contests, with the first edition allowing the winner to open for Sheeran during his Mexico City stop on December 11. The promotion received increased attention as a result of the controversy, with submissions mostly consisting of memes and non-musical videos criticising Macklemore's removal and the subsequent withdrawal of the other openers for the tour whilst supporting Palestine.[50] Such videos were removed by Guitar Center, leaving only valid entries to the contest.[51] The contest was also criticized for the date which it was planned to end, October 7, which coincides with the October 7 attacks.[52]

Gillette Stadium concerts

Gillette Stadium, owned by Robert Kraft's Kraft Group

Ed Sheeran's performances at Kraft's Gillette Stadium on September 25 and 26 were coincidentally cancelled due to a forecast Nor'easter bringing heavy rain and strong wind.[53]

At his October 2 and 3 performances at Gillette Stadium, Zach Bryan wore a t-shirt which had "Free Palestine", a pine tree, and "An appeal to heaven" on it.[54][55] Members of his band wore pro-Palestine shirts. The Boston Herald interpreted the shirt as a protest against Kraft.[56]

Free Palestine Tour

On September 24, Macklemore announced the Free Palestine Tour, with proceeds donated to organizations including Anera, Gaza Soup Kitchen, Medical Aid for Palestinians, Palestinian Youth Movement, Heal Palestine, Palestine Children's Relief Fund, Jewish Voices for Peace, and UNRWA.[57][58][59] The tour runs three shows in Dublin, Paris, and London in October 2026.[59] Hozier, Kneecap, and Beoga performed alongside Macklemore at the Dublin show.[58]

Response

Palestine advocacy groups

In a statement to Al Jazeera, Radhika Sainath, litigation director of Palestine Legal, said that Sheeran would probably have been able to sue for damages if he had supported Macklemore and the tour had been subsequently cancelled.[13]

The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement called on Sheeran to cancel the remaining dates in his US tour.[60]

Media

Irish radio station Classic Hits Radio halted broadcasting songs by Sheeran for the "foreseeable future".[61]

BBC journalist Mark Savage described it as the biggest controversy of Sheeran's career. Music journalist Jeffrey Ingold, in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live, commented on the situation, stating that Sheeran's apparent acceptance of the decision to remove Macklemore felt like "cowardice" that would impact people's opinion of Sheeran.[62]

For Philissa Cramer in Haaretz, the controversy "reveals something new about the state of play," noting that "[Kraft] meets Macklemore on pro-Palestinian terms."[35] Cramer sees the ordeal as evidence of how "American Jewish supporters of Israel are incorporating, rather than rejecting, the growing legitimacy of Palestinian identification even while remaining fearful about their own place in the discourse."[35]

What might initially appear as a sign of solidarity – not inconveniencing fans, not leaving other artists and crew out of pocket – has been upended by a group of artists who understand that losing financial and professional opportunities and creating inconvenience is precisely what it takes to show backbone and stand against genocide and billionaires crushing free speech. [...] At worst, Sheeran – who has always been open about his commercially minded approach to pop – looks like a corporate shill; at best, wilfully naive

— Laura Snapes, The Guardian, September 16 2026"[63]

Laura Snapes, writing for The Guardian, criticised what appeared to be "billionaires crushing free speech", describing Sheeran as somewhere between a "corporate shill" and "wilfully naive".[63] Kaivan Shroff, writing for Zeteo, called Sheeran's remarks "tepid and defensive" and said that he was not staying out of politics but rather "letting a pro-Israel billionaire choose his politics for him."[40] Natasha Lennard, writing in The Intercept, described Sheeran's professed neutrality as "craven".[64]

Manya Brachear Pashman, managing editor of the Jewish news organization The Forward, published a story comparing the cancellation of Macklemore's participation to the continued sold-out performances of Kanye West—who has "spewed explicit anti-Jewish slurs"[64] and made a song called "Heil Hitler"—asking: "is hating Jews more acceptable than hating Israel?"[65] Natasha Lennard, writing for The Intercept, also made the comparison, commenting that the cancellation of Macklemore was motivated by a desire to censor criticism of Israel and conflate it with antisemitism.[64]

Kenan Malik, a columnist for The Observer described the situation as cancel culture. He also noted the close ties between Kraft and Benjamin Netanyahu.[66]

Public figures

In support of Macklemore

Colin Kaepernick, a former National Football League player known for kneeling during the US national anthem in protest of systemic racism in the US, said NFL owners "are openly colluding" against Macklemore. He made parallels between his own cancellation for protesting police violence, and Macklemore's.[67]

Abdullah Hammoud, the mayor of Dearborn, Michigan, which is home to one of the largest Arab communities in the United States, invited Macklemore to perform at a concert sponsored by the city.[68]

Children's advocate and entertainer Ms. Rachel wrote: "Imagine being a Palestinian kid and seeing [Sheeran] did a concert for Ukraine but when over 20,000 Palestinian children are killed he's silent",[64] adding that Sheeran "is making a political statement to his fans when he does a concert to support Ukraine, but considers Palestine too dangerous and political."[69] On September 17, following Macklemore's own $1 million pledge, Ms. Rachel announced she would match his donation to the Palestine Children's Relief Fund, writing on Instagram, "I invite every wealthy white celebrity to match it and speak out against the genocide in Gaza."[70][71][72]

British racing driver Lewis Hamilton praised Macklemore's response on Instagram and expressed support for him, stating: "Thank you for using your voice, standing with you."[73][74] All members of the Los Angeles-based girl group Katseye who collaborated with Sheeran prior to the controversy, also later reportedly unfollowed him on Instagram.[75] Billy Bragg stated "What the owner of the Gillette Stadium, Robert Kraft, [is doing] in refusing to allow Macklemore to play at his stadium because he said 'Free Palestine', is he's trying to intimidate an artist into silence. That seldom works."[76] Climate activist Greta Thunberg also expressed solidarity with Macklemore and the Palestinian people following his removal from the tour.[77] Singer Jack Antonoff criticized Sheeran's response stating that he "missed a massive, beautiful opportunity" to support free speech.[78]

Against Macklemore

Jonathan Greenblatt of the Anti-Defamation League wrote: "Glad to see Macklemore off Ed Sheeran's tour ... For years, Macklemore has pushed antisemitic tropes and demonized Israel and Israelis. Now he certainly has the First Amendment right to speak out and express his views, but demonizing Jews and Israelis shouldn't be rewarded."[24]

Far-right political activist Tommy Robinson expressed support for Sheeran,[79] as did British singer Boy George, who had recently released the pro-Israel song "We Will Dance Again".[80]

Commentator Bill Maher strongly criticized Macklemore's statements, also citing the May 2014 costume incident.[81]

  • In the South Park episode "Billionaire Weenietown", the show referenced a public dispute between Macklemore and a billionaire character modeled after New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft.[82]
  • Following Macklemore's removal from the tour, Palestinian artists Anne Redwan and Qusai al-Helo painted a mural of the rapper on a damaged building in Gaza City in recognition of his public advocacy.[83]

See also

References

  1. ↑ Corlett, Eva (May 9, 2024). "Macklemore performs pro-Palestine song for first time at New Zealand concert". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved September 13, 2026.
  2. ↑ Kaufman, Gil (October 30, 2023). "Drake, Jennifer Lopez Sign Artists4Ceasefire Letter Urging a Pause in Israel/Palestinian Conflict". Billboard. Archived from the original on October 30, 2023. Retrieved April 23, 2024.
  3. ↑ Iasimone, Ashley (November 5, 2023). "Macklemore Speaks at Pro-Palestine Rally in D.C.: 'This Is a Genocide'". Billboard. Archived from the original on November 13, 2023. Retrieved November 5, 2023.
  4. ↑ Pointer, Filsadam (November 5, 2023). "Macklemore Delivered A Stern Speech At The Pro-Palestine Rally Held In Washington, DC". Uproxx. Archived from the original on May 12, 2024. Retrieved May 7, 2024.
  5. 1 2 Saperstein, Pat (September 6, 2026). "Macklemore Calls Out 'Free Palestine' Onstage, Spurring Petition Demanding He Leave Ed Sheeran Tour". Variety. Archived from the original on September 18, 2026. Retrieved September 7, 2026.
  6. ↑ Garner, Glenn (September 7, 2026). "Macklemore Emphasizes "Free Palestine" Pleas Are "In No Way A Criticism" Of Jewish People: "My Message Is For Peace"". Yahoo News. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  7. 1 2 3 DeVille, Chris (September 7, 2026). "Macklemore Addresses Jewish People After Backlash: "Being Against Genocide In No Way Is A Criticism Of You"". Stereogum. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  8. ↑ Singh, Karan (May 6, 2024). "Macklemore To Donate All Earnings From New Song To Palestinian Relief Amid College Protests". HipHopDX. Archived from the original on May 8, 2024. Retrieved May 7, 2024.
  9. ↑ "Who Is Opening for Ed Sheeran on the 2026 Loop Tour?". TourWax. June 17, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  10. ↑ "Macklemore defends 'Free Palestine' call after Ed Sheeran tour backlash". www.bbc.com. September 8, 2026. Retrieved October 31, 2026.
  11. 1 2 BARTOV/JTA, BySHIRA LI (September 19, 2026). "Macklemore faces renewed antisemitism accusations over Israel criticism". The Jerusalem Post. ISSN 0792-822X. Retrieved October 31, 2026.
  12. 1 2 3 "Bob Kraft explains decision to urge ouster of rapper Macklemore from Ed Sheeran tour". GBH. September 14, 2026. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  13. 1 2 3 4 Wolf, Marthe van der. "Who is Robert Kraft, pro-Israel billionaire who cancelled Macklemore?". Al Jazeera. Archived from the original on September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  14. 1 2 3 Beaton, Andrew; Sayre, Katherine; Leight, Elias (September 16, 2026). "The 40-Minute Phone Call That Left Ed Sheeran's Tour Hanging by a Thread". The Wall Street Journal. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  15. 1 2 3 4 Pomeroy, Gabriela (September 14, 2026). "Macklemore dropped from Ed Sheeran tour after 'free Palestine' speech". BBC. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  16. ↑ "Unpacking the 12 days that threw Ed Sheeran's tour into chaos". ABC News. September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  17. ↑ Peters, Mitchell (September 12, 2026). "Pink Addresses Backlash Over Comments About Macklemore's Pro-Palestine Stance: 'Standing Up for My Own People'". Billboard. Archived from the original on September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  18. ↑ "Petition to REMOVE Pink as UNICEF Ambassador Nears 130,000 Signatures After Macklemore-Sheeran Drama". ..::That Grape Juice.net::.. - Thirsty?. September 19, 2026. Archived from the original on September 21, 2026. Retrieved September 20, 2026.
  19. ↑ "Petition to drop Pink as UNICEF envoy tops 60,000 signatures". Türkiye Today. Retrieved September 20, 2026.
  20. ↑ Nebria, Briane (September 21, 2026). "Petition To Remove Pink as UNICEF Ambassador Passes 150,000 Signatures Following Macklemore Comments". International Business Times UK. Archived from the original on September 24, 2026. Retrieved September 24, 2026.
  21. 1 2 "Javier Bardem shares petition to remove Pink as UNICEF ambassador". Yahoo Entertainment. September 22, 2026. Archived from the original on September 24, 2026. Retrieved September 24, 2026.
  22. 1 2 "Macklemore apologises for 'Jewish caricature' costume". BBC News. May 20, 2014. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  23. ↑ Hirshfeld, Rachel (September 7, 2026). "Macklemore Accuses Israel of 'Genocide' and 'Apartheid' at Ed Sheeran's MetLife Stadium Shows". Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  24. 1 2 3 Kirshner, Alex (September 16, 2026). "The Fracturing Between American Jews That Macklemore Just Exposed to the World". Slate. ISSN 1091-2339. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  25. ↑ Sharif, Zach (September 14, 2026). "Macklemore Dropped From Ed Sheeran Tour After 'Free Palestine' Speech". Variety. Archived from the original on September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 15, 2026.
  26. 1 2 Millman, Ethan (September 14, 2026). "Macklemore Responds After Removal From Ed Sheeran Tour: "The Victims Are the Palestinian People"". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved September 15, 2026.
  27. ↑ Tusing, David (September 15, 2026). "Macklemore on removal from Ed Sheeran tour: 'The victims are the Palestinian people'". The National. Retrieved September 15, 2026.
  28. ↑ Blistein, Jon (September 14, 2026). "Macklemore Dropped From Ed Sheeran Tour After Onstage 'Free Palestine' Statements". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 14, 2026.
  29. 1 2 3 Madani, Doha (September 16, 2026). "Macklemore pledges $1 million to Palestinian relief, challenges Robert Kraft to match it". NBC News. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  30. 1 2 3 4 Lindert, Hattie (September 16, 2026). "Macklemore to Donate $1 Million Ed Sheeran Tour Earnings to Palestine Aid, Invites Robert Kraft to Match Him". Pitchfork. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  31. ↑ Moret, Matt (September 17, 2026). "Patriots owner Robert Kraft pledges $2 million donation after Macklemore outcry". The Athletic. Archived from the original on September 19, 2026. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  32. 1 2 3 4 Blistein, Jon (September 16, 2026). "Macklemore to Donate $1 Million to Palestinian Support Groups, Invites Robert Kraft to Match". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  33. ↑ DeSantis, Rachel (September 16, 2026). "Macklemore to Donate $1M Ed Sheeran Tour Earnings to Palestinian Relief Orgs and Invites Robert Kraft to Match His Gift". People. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  34. 1 2 Horton, Adrian (September 14, 2026). "Macklemore dropped from Ed Sheeran's US tour after 'free Palestine' speech". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved September 14, 2026.
  35. 1 2 3 "Haaretz Today • Robert Kraft vs. Macklemore reveals new reality in 'Free Palestine' debate". Haaretz. Archived from the original on September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  36. 1 2 "Macklemore to donate $1 million to Palestinian charities, challenges Robert Kraft to match". The Washington Times. September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  37. 1 2 3 Horton, Adrian (September 15, 2026). "Ed Sheeran responds to backlash over removing Macklemore from tour after 'Free Palestine' comments". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  38. ↑ Grow, Kory (September 15, 2026). "Ed Sheeran Breaks Silence on Macklemore Leaving Tour: Venue, Promoter Made 'Final' Decisions". Rolling Stone. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  39. 1 2 3 "Ed Sheeran's tour in trouble after opening acts drop out in solidarity with rapper Macklemore". NPR. Associated Press. September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  40. 1 2 Shroff, Kaivan (September 15, 2026). "Ed Sheeran Isn't Staying Out of Politics – He Is Letting a Pro-Israel Billionaire Choose His Politics for Him". zeteo.com. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  41. ↑ "Ed Sheeran returns to 'Loop' tour after support acts and backing band drop out: "Best show of my life"". NME. September 20, 2026. Archived from the original on September 20, 2026. Retrieved September 20, 2026.
  42. ↑ "Ed Sheeran admits 'mistakes' at first show since Macklemore controversy". BBC. September 20, 2026. Archived from the original on September 21, 2026. Retrieved September 21, 2026.
  43. ↑ Pequeño, Antonio (September 15, 2026). "Ed Sheeran Loses All Opening Acts After Macklemore Dropped Over 'Free Palestine' Backlash". Forbes. Archived from the original on September 18, 2026. Retrieved September 18, 2026.
  44. ↑ Ryan, Órla (September 15, 2026). "Irish acts Aaron Rowe and Beoga quit Ed Sheeran's US tour in protest over Palestine". The Irish Times. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 15, 2026.
  45. ↑ Kennedy, Mark (September 15, 2026). "4 supporting acts quit Ed Sheeran's tour after Macklemore is dropped over pro-Palestinian comments". San Francisco Chronicle. Associated Press. Archived from the original on September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 15, 2026.
  46. ↑ Duffy, Rónán (September 16, 2026). "'Free Palestine': The Irish artists standing by Macklemore and pulling out of Ed Sheeran's US tour". The Journal. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  47. ↑ Lynch, Jessica (September 19, 2026). "Former Ed Sheeran Opener Aaron Rowe Defends Singer Amid Macklemore Tour Fallout". Billboard. Archived from the original on September 20, 2026. Retrieved September 21, 2026.
  48. 1 2 Unterberger, Andrew (September 17, 2026). "How Has Ed Sheeran Tour Chaos Affected Streaming Numbers for Macklemore, Other Openers & Ed Himself?". Billboard. Retrieved September 20, 2026.
  49. ↑ Alkas, Dawoud Abu; Magid, Pesha (September 18, 2026). "Mural of rapper Macklemore painted in Gaza after Sheeran tour furore". Reuters. Retrieved September 20, 2026.
  50. ↑ Stenzel, Wesley (September 16, 2026). "Contest to pick Ed Sheeran opener launches amid Macklemore turmoil, users flood site with fake entries". Entertainment Weekly. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  51. ↑ O'Connor, Roisin (September 17, 2026). "Want to open for Ed Sheeran? Ill-timed contest to find support act gets fake entries". The Independent. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  52. ↑ "Competition to open for Ed Sheeran removes pro-Palestinian entries". Newsweek. September 18, 2026. Archived from the original on September 18, 2026. Retrieved September 18, 2026.
  53. ↑ Andersen, Travis (September 25, 2026). "Ed Sheeran's weekend Gillette concerts canceled due to arriving nor'easter". The Boston Globe. Archived from the original on September 25, 2026. Retrieved September 25, 2026.
  54. ↑ "Zach Bryan wears "Free Palestine" shirt at Gillette Stadium concert weeks after Macklemore-Robert Kraft controversy - CBS Boston". www.cbsnews.com. October 3, 2026. Retrieved October 4, 2026.
  55. ↑ Garner, Glenn (October 4, 2026). "Zach Bryan Breaks Gillette Stadium Record With "Free Palestine" Shirt". Deadline. Retrieved October 4, 2026.
  56. ↑ "Zach Bryan defiant against Robert Kraft, wears 'Free Palestine' shirt at Gillette Stadium show". Boston Herald. October 4, 2026. Retrieved October 4, 2026.
  57. ↑ Sharf, Zack (September 24, 2026). "Macklemore Announces 'Free Palestine' Tour With All Ticket Sales Being Donated to Charity". Variety. Archived from the original on September 24, 2026. Retrieved September 24, 2026.
  58. 1 2 Paul, Larisha (October 27, 2026). "Macklemore Launches Free Palestine Tour With Hozier and Kneecap in Dublin". Rolling Stone. Retrieved October 27, 2026.
  59. 1 2 Todd, Nate (October 27, 2026). "Hozier, KNEECAP & More Help Macklemore Kick Off Free Palestine Tour In Dublin". JamBase. Retrieved October 27, 2026.
  60. ↑ "Palestinians call on Ed Sheeran to cancel his compromised US tour | BDS Movement". bdsmovement.net. September 14, 2026. Retrieved September 19, 2026.
  61. ↑ Loren, Anna (September 17, 2026). "Ed Sheeran songs removed from airwaves over Macklemore Palestine row". The Independent. Retrieved October 12, 2026.
  62. ↑ Savage, Ryan (September 16, 2026). "How being music's Mr Nice Guy contributed to biggest crisis of Ed Sheeran's career". BBC. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  63. 1 2 Snapes, Laura (September 16, 2026). "Ed Sheeran wants to stay out of politics. By quitting his tour, his support acts have exposed the hollowness of neutrality". The Guardian. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  64. 1 2 3 4 Lennard, Natasha (September 16, 2026). "Ed Sheeran's Craven "Neutrality" Is a Watershed Moment for Mainstreaming Palestine Solidarity". The Intercept. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  65. ↑ Pashman, Manya Brachear (September 16, 2026). "Macklemore got canceled. Kanye is playing sold-out shows. What's the difference?". The Forward. Archived from the original on September 16, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  66. ↑ Malik, Kenan (September 20, 2026). "Macklemore's axing from Ed Sheeran's US tour exposes the double standards inherent in cancel culture". The Observer. Archived from the original on September 20, 2026. Retrieved September 20, 2026.
  67. ↑ Lutz, Tom (September 16, 2026). "Colin Kaepernick says NFL owners are colluding against Macklemore after Ed Sheeran tour ban". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  68. ↑ O'Boyle, Kathleen (September 15, 2026). "Michigan mayor offers Macklemore free gig after he's kicked off Ed Sheeran tour". Irish Star. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 16, 2026.
  69. ↑ Sottile, Zoe (September 15, 2026). "Fellow opening acts quit after Ed Sheeran tour drops Macklemore". CNN. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  70. ↑ Chaudhry, Sameen (September 18, 2026). "Ms. Rachel matches Macklemore's $1M Palestine donation amid Ed Sheeran tour drama". USA Today. Retrieved September 18, 2026.
  71. ↑ McLean, Kayla (September 18, 2026). "Ms. Rachel pledges $1M US in Palestinian aid to match Macklemore's donation following Sheeran tour exit". CBC News. Retrieved September 18, 2026.
  72. ↑ Sharf, Zack (September 17, 2026). "Ms. Rachel to Match Macklemore's $1 Million Donation to Support Palestine: 'I Invite Every Wealthy White Celebrity' to Do the Same". Variety. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 18, 2026.
  73. ↑ Pequeño IV, Antonio (September 16, 2026). "Lewis Hamilton Joins These Celebrities Backing Macklemore After His Removal From Ed Sheeran's Tour". Forbes. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  74. ↑ Korpan, Andrew (September 16, 2026). "Lewis Hamilton stands with Macklemore after he was dropped from Ed Sheeran tour thanks to Robert Kraft". ClutchPoints. Archived from the original on September 17, 2026. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  75. ↑ Min-jung, Cha (September 17, 2026). "Katseye unfollows collaborator Ed Sheeran amid Macklemore fallout". The Korea Herald. Retrieved September 17, 2026.
  76. ↑ "Billy Bragg "not impressed by Ed Sheeran's attempt to deflect the current storm of criticism" and questions $2million donation". NME. September 20, 2026. Archived from the original on September 20, 2026. Retrieved September 20, 2026.
  77. ↑ "Ed Sheeran's opening acts quit tour after Macklemore axed for pro-Palestinian remarks". Reuters. September 15, 2026. Retrieved September 26, 2026.
  78. ↑ Wong, Curtis M. (October 27, 2026). "'Stand The F**k Up': Jack Antonoff Has Blunt Words For Ed Sheeran". HuffPost. Retrieved October 27, 2026.
  79. ↑ Mulla, Imran (September 17, 2026). "Tommy Robinson backs Ed Sheeran as Paloma Faith and Ms Rachel side with Macklemore". Middle East Eye. Retrieved September 18, 2026.
  80. ↑ "Boy George weighs in as Ed Sheeran row divides musicians". The New Daily. September 18, 2026. Archived from the original on September 18, 2026. Retrieved September 18, 2026.
  81. ↑ Ray, Alyssa (September 18, 2026). "Bill Maher Revives Macklemore's Antisemitic Costume Controversy Amid Ed Sheeran Fallout". TheWrap. Archived from the original on September 19, 2026. Retrieved September 20, 2026.
  82. ↑ Turkeltaub, Payton (September 30, 2026). "'South Park' Goes After Billionaires, Data Centers and Anti-Vaxxers — Plus Robert Kraft and Trump — in Phallic-Filled New Episode". Variety. Archived from the original on October 1, 2026. Retrieved September 30, 2026.
  83. ↑ "Mural of rapper Macklemore painted in Gaza after Sheeran tour furor". The Jerusalem Post. September 18, 2026. Retrieved October 12, 2026.
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