Rowe then accused powerful figures of silencing people who speak about Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and the deaths of Palestinian children.
“I would lose all respect for myself to carry on as normal,” he said. “I need to be true to myself and my ancestors who resisted colonisation, and fought for a freedom that I enjoy today in Ireland. FREE PALESTINE.”
Rowe’s statement described Israel’s actions as genocide. Israel has rejected that characterisation in international proceedings.
What did Macklemore say onstage?
Macklemore had opened for Sheeran at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 4 September. During his performance, he called for a “free Palestine,” thanked others who had publicly supported Palestinians and addressed people living in Gaza and the West Bank, telling them they had not been forgotten.
The remarks drew criticism and prompted objections from venues scheduled to host later dates. Messina Touring Group subsequently confirmed that some venues would not allow Macklemore to perform and had warned that the shows could not proceed if he remained a support act.
After being removed, Macklemore issued a statement repeating his support for Palestinians. He acknowledged that some people preferred not to take sides but argued that there was “no neutral position between the oppressor and the oppressed.”
“Refusing to take a side doesn’t leave you in the middle,” he added.
Macklemore also called Sheeran a friend and said the British singer had been placed in a “f***ed-up position.” His criticism focused on the venues and promoter rather than Sheeran personally.
How did Ed Sheeran explain Macklemore’s removal?
Sheeran later said the decision had not been his. According to his statement, venues contacted the tour after Macklemore’s New Jersey appearances and threatened to cancel upcoming shows if the rapper remained on the bill.
Sheeran said those objections concerned how Macklemore had delivered part of his message, rather than everything he had said. He added that he spent the following week speaking with venues, promoters and activists on both sides in an attempt to reach an agreement.
“I spoke with the venues at length all week to try and build a bridge,” Sheeran wrote. “I was also involved in direct talks with promoters along with activists on both sides to try and find a mutual resolution for all, but the venue’s and promoter’s decision was final.”
He stressed that Macklemore’s touring contract was with the promoter, not with him. The distinction matters contractually, even if it does little to make the disappearing lineup look less chaotic.
Sheeran also said he would not cancel the concerts because fans had already made plans and touring staff, musicians and the remaining support acts depended on the shows for work.
“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,” he said.
Rowe’s withdrawal now leaves Sheeran continuing the tour without either of the two performers, though for notably different reasons. Sheeran’s representatives were contacted for further comment.
