Ed Sheeran tour: Finneas, Aaron Rowe withdraw after Macklemore removal
Several musical acts, including Finneas and Lukas Graham, have withdrawn from Ed Sheeran's tour following the removal of rapper Macklemore. The artists cited their support for Palestine and opposition to the silencing of political speech as reasons for their departure.
Why it matters
The situation highlights the growing intersection of global political activism and the live music industry, creating logistical and reputational challenges for major touring artists.
Numerous music acts have pulled the plug on their upcoming performances with Ed Sheeran in the latest twist of events in the singer's tour. Grammy winner Finneas, Irish singer-songwriter Aaron Rowe and pop band Lukas Graham announced in separate social media statements shared Tuesday they are withdrawing from Sheeran's tour and will no longer serve as supporting acts for the "Shape of You" pop star. Irish folk group Beoga also said on Instagram it will no longer serve as Sheeran's backing band. The artists announced their exits just a day after rapper Macklemore was removed from Sheeran's tour over his pro-Palestinian messaging onstage earlier this month. A representative for Sheeran did not immediately respond to The Times' request for comment on Tuesday. "Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed.
Also covering this story
18 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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Robert Kraft Confirms He Barred Macklemore From Ed Sheeran Boston Shows - Rolling Stone
Ed Sheeran says it wasn't his decision to drop Macklemore
Ed Sheeran responds to backlash over removing Macklemore from tour after ‘Free Palestine’ comments
Ed Sheeran issues statement as band, support acts quit tour after Macklemore axed over pro-Palestine comments
Macklemore dropped from Ed Sheeran tour after pro-Palestine comments - The Washington Post
Ed Sheeran Opener Aaron Rowe Pulls Out of Tour After Macklemore Drop
Macklemore dropped from Ed Sheeran's tour over 'Free Palestine' comments, as Robert Kraft weighs in
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