Macklemore Removed From Sheeran Stadium Dates

Macklemore was removed from the remaining U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour after venues reportedly warned that keeping him on the lineup could jeopardize the concerts. The decision followed his Sept. 4 performance at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, where he said “Free Palestine,” criticized violence in Gaza and performed “Hind’s Hall,” his pro-Palestinian protest song. Tour promoter Messina Touring Group said the change followed discussions with venues and other stakeholders to avoid cancellations affecting hundreds of thousands of fans. Macklemore said Sheeran told him that Robert Kraft, whose company owns Gillette Stadium, opposed his appearance and rallied other stadium owners, though the promoter did not independently confirm that account. The dispute also drew criticism from some audience members, a petition seeking his removal and controversy involving Pink after she shared criticism of his remarks.