The tension following Macklemore’s departure from “The Loop Tour” led Ed Sheeran to publicly speak out. Following the decision of the promoter Messina Touring Group to separate the American rapper from the tour of the British artist for proclaiming messages in favor of Palestine during his performances, the singer decided to issue a statement through his social networks to give his version of the facts.
Sheeran began his statement assuring that he felt horrified by the conflict between Israel and Palestine, qualifying the suffering of both sides as a human tragedy. Despite highlighting his respect for Macklemore — whom he personally invited to the tour last year — he clarified that the cancellation of his appearances was not a personal initiative, but of the surroundings and promoters involved.
According to the “Shape of You” performer, several of the rooms scheduled for the U.S. tour threatened to suspend the dates if the rapper continued. The warnings arose following her performance in New Jersey, where Macklemore projected images of Gaza and shouted political words.
Despite Sheeran's attempt to mediate between the parties by conversing with managers such as Robert Kraft — owner of the Gillette Stadium — and various activists, the organizing companies' stance was irretractable.
“The expulsion of Macklemore from the tour was the promoter’s decision.I would never disappoint the fans or abandon the tour team and the musicians who depend on me to work,” he said in his message.
Sheeran also justified her usual refusal to engage in political debates on the scenes by arguing for the presence of children’s audiences in her concerts. “I respect Macklemore’s firmness in raising his voice. There are different ways to advocate change. I choose to use my reputation to offer a safe space and foster dialogue rather than shut it down,” he said.
For his part, Macklemore attached importance to personal consequences against him or Sheeran, recalling that the real victims are civilians affected by the war in Palestine. In addition, the rapper called Sheeran a brother, confident that this episode will not destroy their friendship of more than a decade.
Following Macklemore's expulsion from the tour, other artists such as producer Finneas, Irish Aaron Rowe and Beoga, and Danish Lukas Graham announced they would not take part in the tour.
