Macklemore has revealed plans to kick off his own tour following his removal as an opening act for Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour leg. The rapper shared that all proceeds from the upcoming shows will be directed towards supporting Palestinian causes.
Amidst controversy, Macklemore was axed from Sheeran’s tour due to pressure from venue owners threatening to cancel shows if he continued as the opening act. Expressing longstanding pro-Palestinian sentiments, the rapper has consistently voiced his views on various platforms.
In response to the situation, Macklemore emphasized the broader implications beyond just himself, highlighting the influence of the wealthy in controlling voices on stage. With his schedule now cleared after the tour fallout, the rapper announced a series of performances under the banner of the Free Palestine Tour in Dublin, Paris, and London, with additional U.S. dates to be revealed.
In a bid to amplify solidarity efforts, Macklemore has been collaborating with artists who have shown support for the Palestinian cause despite potential repercussions. The upcoming shows are set to benefit several Palestinian aid organizations, including Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA.
The tour’s announcement comes in the wake of a series of events that unfolded since Macklemore’s initial performances on the tour, which sparked controversy and led to his removal. The rapper’s stance on the issue has triggered reactions from various groups, with conflicting opinions surfacing within the music community.