U2 Weigh In on Ed Sheeran and Macklemore Tour Controversy
Yahoo • • entertainment
Key Points:
- U2 members, including The Edge and Larry Mullen Jr., have expressed support for Macklemore's right to speak out politically, emphasizing freedom of expression while cautioning against vilifying Ed Sheeran, who was in a difficult position regarding the rapper's removal from his U.S. tour.
- Macklemore was dropped from Sheeran's North American Loop Tour after making pro-Palestinian statements and performing a protest song, with promoter Messina Touring Group and Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft citing concerns over antisemitic rhetoric.
- Several artists, including Finneas, Lukas Graham, and Beoga, left Sheeran's tour in solidarity with Macklemore, and Sheeran later apologized for mishandling the situation during a Philadelphia concert.
- Following his removal, Macklemore held three sold-out Free Palestine benefit concerts in Europe with guest performers, raising funds for Palestinian support organizations.
- U2 is set to release their 16th studio album, Carnaval De Luz, on November 13, featuring the final recorded vocal performance of Dolly Parton on the closing track "Torn."
