American rapper Macklemore has been dropped from the remainder of the US leg of Ed Sheeran’s Loop tour. This decision follows controversial remarks made by the Grammy-winning artist during a performance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on September 4.
During a brief speech between songs, Macklemore told the audience "free Palestine" and expressed that the people of Gaza and the "occupied West Bank" should know they have not been forgotten. These statements led to condemnation from Jewish groups and a petition from the Israeli American Council demanding his removal from the tour.
Macklemore stated that he was removed after New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft organized a boycott among stadium owners over the remarks. The Gillette Stadium owner cited concerns over the rapper's rhetoric as the reason for barring him from performances.
Messina Touring Group, which promoted the tour, confirmed that venues would not allow the concerts to be held if the rapper, who is an outspoken Palestinian advocate, remained on the lineup.