Photo Credit: Ed Sheeran (@teddysphotos / Instagram)
Ed Sheeran speaks out on the decision to remove Macklemore from the remainder of the singer’s US tour following his Palestine remarks during two sets.
Ed Sheeran has finally broken his silence regarding the decision to remove Macklemore as the opening act from the remaining dates of his U.S. tour. The move followed Macklemore’s Palestine remarks during the two shows at MetLife Stadium on September 4 and 5. Macklemore was originally set to perform as the opener at 10 shows.
“I am appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine. The suffering and pain caused on both sides is a human tragedy. There are too many wars across the world causing immeasurable pain, none of which should be tolerated,” his statement on Instagram began.
“After Macklemore’s performance at my New Jersey shows, venues on my upcoming tour dates communicated that they would pull the shows if he was still supporting. I was informed that this stance was based on how Macklemore conveyed part of his message during his performance, rather than on everything that was said,” Sheeran explained.
The 35-year-old singer said he was “involved in direct talks with promoters along with activists on both sides to try and find a mutual resolution for all, but the venues’ and promoters’ decision was final.”
“Macklemore coming off the tour was the promoter’s decision; it was not mine. Macklemore’s contract for the tour was with the promoter, not me,” he clarified. “I would never let down the fans who had made plans, nor would I abandon the touring crew and the other support acts and musicians who rely on me for work and to make a living.”
“I have always used my platform and music to bring people from all backgrounds and cultures together, and this won’t ever change. Those who have been to one of my shows will know that they are about unity, joy, escapism, love, and a place for everyone to feel welcome.”
“I am not complicit,” Sheeran stressed. “Just because I choose not to speak publicly, it doesn’t mean I don’t have [personal views], and it doesn’t mean I don’t care. Nor does it mean I don’t support causes in my own, personal way.”
“There is a reason I do not use my professional platform for politics—my audience includes young people, often children, of all backgrounds. Those who come to my shows do not expect a political forum,” he continued. “I respect Macklemore’s strength of purpose to stand up and shout for what he believes. However, there is room for multiple approaches to the same end: peace. I choose to use my fame and platform to be a place of safety and sanctuary, to maintain diplomacy and keep conversations open, not closed.”
“If we are only focused on shouting the loudest, nothing will ever change. There are different approaches to being an advocate for change,” Sheeran’s statement concluded. “I have spent this week trying to build bridges, to find a solution, and was unfortunately unable to do so. I know who I am, both as a person and as an artist, and those who know me by heart know my values too.”
Sheeran’s post follows Macklemore’s own statement regarding the matter, as well as a statement from Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft, who confirmed that he pushed for Macklemore’s removal from the remainder of the tour.