Sheeran addresses Macklemore controversy, admits 'mistakes'
Macklemore was removed from Sheeran's tour after making pro-Palestinian comments. Sheeran said the decision was made by concert promoters rather than by him directly
British singer Ed Sheeran addressed the controversy surrounding rapper Macklemore's removal from his US tour during a concert in Philadelphia, saying he had tried to avoid political commentary but could no longer remain silent about what he described as a humanitarian issue.
Macklemore was removed from Sheeran's tour after making pro-Palestinian comments. Sheeran said the decision was made by concert promoters rather than by him directly, BBC.
Robert Kraft, the billionaire owner of Gillette Stadium and the New England Patriots, also confirmed that Macklemore had been banned from performing at Sheeran's upcoming shows at the stadium, citing what he described as hate speech.
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Speaking at Lincoln Financial Field, Sheeran said he had not intended to become involved in political debate.
"I never wanted to be an activist musician, but this has put me in the middle of an important and passionate argument about free speech and the most complex political issue on the planet"
Sheeran said he had generally sought to keep politics separate from his music and performances.
"I have tried in my career not to be a political commentator of any kind, because I want my music and shows to be about unity, not division; about humanity, not politics. But this is a humanitarian issue, and I cannot hide how I feel about it anymore."
He said the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks in Israel were "horrific and compounded centuries of Jewish pain", while describing the situation in Gaza as "catastrophic", "unjustifiable" and "disproportionate".
"What is happening in Gaza is catastrophic and unjustifiable and disproportionate. My heart has been broken by the scale of of devastation and loss of civilian lives, of children's lives, and this systemic injustice we're seeing unfold in the West Bank cannot be overlooked."
Sheeran said he was trying to learn more about the conflict and determine how he could help people affected by it.
"I have tried in my career not to be a political commentator of any kind, because I want my music and shows to be about unity, not division; about humanity, not politics. But this is a humanitarian issue, and I cannot hide how I feel about it anymore."
He also criticized the practice of venues "preapproving" content or performers, saying his concerts should remain a place where people can gather regardless of their views.
"My concerts have always been a safe space for everyone"
The controversy has affected the remaining US dates of Sheeran's Loop Tour, with several other artists leaving the tour and ticket prices declining, according to the information provided. Some tickets were available for as little as $32.
Some fans also reported receiving refunds, although promoters Messina Touring Group and Ticketmaster did not formally confirm reimbursement policies.
The Philadelphia concert began nearly three hours later than scheduled. A small group of protesters carrying flags gathered outside a nearby transit station, but the concert proceeded without a major incident.
Some concertgoers said they wanted to attend the show while also supporting freedom of speech.
Sheeran said he wanted to make clear that performing the concert did not necessarily indicate a particular political position.
"Now, I want to address the question of where I stand in the situation in Israel and Palestine, and whether my doing this concert here tonight implies where I stand"
He said he wanted to continue providing a space for audiences with different views.
"My concerts have always been a safe space for everyone"
The controversy comes as artists and concert venues face increasing scrutiny over performers' political statements and the extent to which venues and promoters should regulate political expression at live events.
