Alexis Aryeequaye, contributor

Conversations on how artists should use their platform politically have begun after English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran removed American rapper Macklemore as an opener on his North American tour. Macklemore was removed as an opening act from the remaining U.S. dates of Sheeran’s Tour after making pro-Palestinian statements during performances at MetLife Stadium. During his set, Macklemore shouted “Free Palestine” before performing “Hind’s Hall,” his protest song inspired by pro-Palestinian student demonstrations. The rapper has been outspoken about the genocide in Gaza and has repeatedly criticized the Israeli government’s actions. His performances received backlash from some pro-Israel organizations, but Macklemore has maintained that criticism of the Israeli government should not be equated with antisemitism.

After the performances, other venues reportedly objected to Macklemore remaining on the tour. Sheeran said he attempted to negotiate with venues but was ultimately unsuccessful. “Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision; it was not mine,” Sheeran wrote in a statement on Instagram. He added that Macklemore’s contract was with the tour promoter, not with him. Sheeran also defended his decision to continue the tour, saying he would not abandon fans, crew members and musicians who depended on the concerts for work. The singer initially resisted becoming publicly involved in the political debate. “I am not complicit,” Sheeran wrote. “I have my personal views on this devastating conflict.” He added that choosing not to publicly discuss those views did not mean he did not care. Sheeran said he had traditionally avoided using his professional platform for politics because his audience includes people from different backgrounds and ages.

However, many fans on social media have called out Sheeran on what they view as hypocrisy. At the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, Sheeran, among other artists, performed at a televised benefit concert to support victims of the war. “I respect Macklemore’s strength of purpose to stand up and shout for what he believes,” Sheeran wrote. “However, there is room for multiple approaches to the same end: peace.” His response did not end the controversy. The remaining supporting performers and his touring band subsequently withdrew from Sheeran’s tour following Macklemore’s removal, intensifying the criticism of the situation.

Days later, Sheeran addressed the controversy on stage during a concert at Lincoln Financial Field. Speaking directly to the audience, Sheeran acknowledged criticism of his handling of the situation. “I’ve had to take and make difficult decisions, and I am making mistakes, and I’m so, so sorry,” Sheeran said. He also expressed concern about venues attempting to control what performers can say onstage, telling the audience he was “deeply worried” about venues pre-approving performances. 

Sheeran then addressed the Israeli-Palestinian genocide more directly than he had previously. He described the Oct. 7, 2023 attack in Israel as horrific while calling the situation in Gaza “catastrophic, unjustifiable and disproportionate.” Sheeran continued on to say “I have tried in my career not to be a political commentator of any kind because I want my music and shows to be about unity, not division. But this is a humanitarian issue, and I cannot hide how I feel about it anymore.” Despite being dropped, Macklemore has said he does not resent Sheeran.