Macklemore has revealed plans for his independent tour following his removal as an opening act for Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour leg. Proceeds from the upcoming shows will be donated to organizations that support Palestinians.
The decision to drop Macklemore from the tour came after several American venue owners threatened to cancel Sheeran’s shows if the rapper continued as the opening act, as stated by the Messina Touring Group, the U.S. leg’s promoter, in a Rolling Stone magazine report.
Having been known for his pro-Palestinian stance over the years, Macklemore has reiterated his support for Palestinians on various occasions. In response to the recent events, the rapper emphasized the significance of the situation, stating that when the wealthy elite can dictate whose voices are heard on stage, it should raise concerns for everyone.
Macklemore announced three performance dates in October in Dublin, Paris, and London as part of the Free Palestine Tour, featuring himself and other artists. Additional U.S. tour dates are expected to be announced soon.
The upcoming shows will benefit Palestinian aid organizations, including Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA, which supports Palestinian refugees, as per a Live Nation press release.
In a brief recap of the unfolding controversy, Macklemore’s vocal support for Palestine during his performances led to backlash from Israeli advocacy groups. This resulted in his removal from the tour, with other supporting acts choosing to drop out in solidarity with him. Sheeran later apologized to fans during his tour without Macklemore and the other supporting acts, expressing his reluctance to be viewed as an activist musician.
Macklemore has pledged to donate all his earnings from the tour to humanitarian organizations aiding Gaza, challenging billionaire businessman Robert Kraft to do the same. Kraft responded by committing $2 million for regional aid, following Sheeran’s request before Macklemore’s challenge.
