Macklemore hits back with 'Free Palestine Tour' after Ed Sheeran split
US rapper Macklemore has launched a 'Free Palestine Tour' after being removed from Ed Sheeran's tour following his pro-Palestinian comments. Macklemore stated that the move was an attempt to silence political speech and announced that proceeds from his new shows will support Palestinian organizations.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between celebrity activism, corporate tour management, and the geopolitical discourse surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
US rapper Macklemore announced his own “Free Palestine Tour”, with all proceeds going to organisations supporting Palestinians, after being dropped from Ed Sheeran’s US tour following pro-Palestinian comments earlier this month.
US rapper Macklemore performs on the Main Stage at the 42th Gurtenfestival edition in Bern, Switzerland, Wednesday, Jul 16, 2025. (Photo: AP/Anthony Anex)
US rapper Macklemore, who was dropped from British pop star Ed Sheeran's tour after making pro-Palestinian comments, announced Thursday (Sep 24) he will instead perform on his own "Free Palestine Tour".
Macklemore, who was opening for Sheeran's Loop Tour, shouted "Free Palestine!" and told Palestinians they were "not forgotten" during two concerts earlier this month in New Jersey.
The Thrift Shop star was quickly booted from the US tour – a decision that Sheeran said was made by tour promoters, not him – provoking outrage among musicians and pro-Palestinian activists.
Also covering this story
7 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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US rapper Macklemore sets Free Palestine tour after being dumped from Ed Sheeran shows
Macklemore announces 'Free Palestine' tour after being dumped from Ed Sheeran shows
Macklemore Announces Free Palestine Tour
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