Macklemore Dropped from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour After Pro-Palestine Protest, Sparking Industry Fallout
The Loop Tour, Ed Sheeran’s massive stadium run across the United States, has been rocked by controversy following the removal of Grammy-winning rapper Macklemore from the lineup. In September 2026, during his opening set at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Macklemore criticized the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and declared, “Free Palestine.” He also performed his pro-Palestine song, “Hind’s Hall,” while footage from Gaza appeared on a large screen behind him. The politically charged performance quickly drew backlash, and Macklemore was subsequently dropped from the remaining dates of the tour.nnThe decision to remove Macklemore has triggered a wave of support from other artists. Lukas Graham, one of the few remaining openers at the time, soon followed suit, announcing, “We’re withdrawing from the remaining dates.” The Irish band Beoga also departed, stating on Instagram: “We have made the decision to depart as Ed Sheeran’s band on the remaining US Loop tour, following the silencing of Macklemore by zionist lobbies.” Additionally, singer Faith praised Macklemore, saying, “You are a rare and important voice … thank you for existing… This is so articulate and so powerful.” The band Garbage described the response to Macklemore’s removal as “a major turning point.”nnMeanwhile, Ed Sheeran’s official merchandise continues to be promoted, including the ‘+-=÷×’ TOUR COLLECTION on bright blue vinyl, priced at $39.98. The item is listed as available, though it is currently marked as sale and sold out on the site. As the tour progresses, the fallout from Macklemore’s dismissal continues to reverberate, raising questions about artistic expression and political activism
Shimanta Das 
