Ed Sheeran Says Macklemore's Removal from Loop Tour Was Promoter Decision

Ed Sheeran released a statement confirming that Macklemore will not appear on the remaining dates of the Loop stadium tour after venue operators expressed that they would cancel shows if the rapper remained on the bill. Sheeran said the decision was made by the tour’s promoter, the Messina Touring Group, and not by him personally.

"I am appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine," the singer wrote, adding that he respects Macklemore as an artist but that the venues’ stance was based on how the rapper conveyed part of his message during his New Jersey performances.

Sheeran said he spent a week speaking with venue representatives, promoters and activists in an effort to find a compromise, but the promoters’ decision was final. He emphasized that his own contract with the support act is with the promoter, not with him directly, and that he would not abandon fans, crew or other opening acts.

The rapper had used his set at MetLife Stadium on Sept. 4 and 5 to call for a “Free Palestine” message, displaying images of Gaza and playing a song about pro-Palestine demonstrators. The remarks prompted a petition from the Israeli American Council and public calls for his removal, including a repost by singer Pink.

Messina Touring Group confirmed that venues on the upcoming leg of the tour would not allow concerts to proceed with Macklemore on the lineup, citing potential cancellations that could affect hundreds of thousands of fans. Macklemore had been scheduled to perform at eight of the ten remaining shows, including stops at Gillette Stadium, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Lucas Oil Stadium.

Sheeran concluded that he will continue to use his platform to promote unity and avoid turning his concerts into political forums, while acknowledging his personal views on the Israel-Palestine conflict.