Ed Sheeran’s Tour has lost all of its remaining support acts following Macklemore’s pro-Palestine comments.
The controversy surrounding Ed Sheeran’s US tour has escalated. After Macklemore was removed from the remaining dates of the Loop Tour, every other announced supporting act has now withdrawn.
The decision comes after Macklemore repeatedly voiced support for Palestinians during his performances with Sheeran, including a “Free Palestine” statement at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium. The tour’s promoter later confirmed that venue owners had refused to host shows with Macklemore on the lineup.
Finneas, Lukas Graham and Beoga Leave Tour
Finneas was the first of the remaining artists to announce his withdrawal. The musician, who was scheduled to support Sheeran during six South American shows, said artists should not be silenced when speaking up for oppressed people. He also explicitly expressed his support for Palestine.
Irish singer Aaron Rowe also pulled out of the tour. Although he described Sheeran as a friend who had changed his life, Rowe said he could not simply continue as normal following Macklemore’s removal.
Lukas Graham followed shortly afterwards. Frontman Lukas Forchhammer argued that artists should be able to speak about war, civilian deaths and children regardless of where they live.
Sheeran’s longtime touring collaborators Beoga also announced their departure. The Irish band said they believe dialogue is important when discussing the suffering of Palestinians.
Ed Sheeran Says Macklemore Removal Was Not His Decision
Sheeran has rejected the idea that he personally decided to remove Macklemore. In a statement, the singer said the decision was made by the tour’s promoter after several venues indicated they would not host the shows if Macklemore remained involved.
Ed Sheeran said he had spent days speaking with venues, the promoter and activists on different sides in an attempt to find a solution. He also said he was “appalled” by the suffering caused by the conflict and that he has personal views on it, even though he does not publicly discuss them.
Sheeran explained that he wants his concerts to remain a place of “safety and refuge,” particularly because his audience includes young people and children. Macklemore, meanwhile, has defended his decision to speak publicly about Palestine.
With Finneas, Aaron Rowe, Lukas Graham and Beoga all gone, none of the previously announced support acts remain attached to the upcoming Loop Tour dates.
What do you think about the ongoing controversy surrounding Ed Sheeran’s tour? Let us know in the comments!
