Ed Sheeran Clarifies Gaza Stance, Again Blames Venues for Kicking Macklemore Off Tour
Pitchfork • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Ed Sheeran addressed the controversy surrounding Macklemore's removal from his tour, expressing concern about venues pre-approving performers' content and emphasizing his desire to keep concerts a safe space for all fans.
- Sheeran condemned the violence on October 7 in Israel and the ongoing assault on Gaza, calling the situation catastrophic and unjustifiable while acknowledging the deep historical pain experienced by Jewish people.
- Following Macklemore's removal, which involved pressure from Patriots owner Robert Kraft, multiple supporting acts and Sheeran’s original backing band resigned in solidarity, leading Sheeran to bring in new musicians for his tour.
- Macklemore pledged to donate $1 million from the tour to Palestinian aid organizations and challenged Kraft to match it; Kraft donated $2 million for aid in the region but has not specified the recipients.
- Sheeran expressed uncertainty about continuing the tour amid backlash but found encouragement in fan support, emphasizing themes of unity and hope during his Philadelphia performance.
