Macklemore says US venues rejected his Free Palestine tour
Rapper Macklemore claims that major US concert venues, including Madison Square Garden, have refused to book his 'Free Palestine' tour. He argues that venue owners are suppressing his freedom of speech regarding his criticism of Israel's war in Gaza.
Why it matters
This highlights the intersection of celebrity activism, corporate venue management, and the ongoing political polarization surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Rapper Macklemore performing during the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games, in Duesseldorf, Germany on Sept 9, 2023.
Listen LOS ANGELES - American rapper Macklemore, an outspoken critic of Israel’s war in Gaza, said on Nov 6 that major US concert venues, including New York’s Madison Square Garden, refused to book his Free Palestine tour that just concluded three dates in Europe.
The Thrift Shop performer launched the effort after he was removed as the opening act on musician Ed Sheeran’s concert tour in August . Macklemore said at the time that stadium owners had objected to him saying “Free Palestine” on stage.
Since then, nine US venues declined to allow him to book available dates through the end of the year, Macklemore said on social media. The venues included Madison Square Garden and the Kia Forum in Los Angeles.
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