Macklemore announced a three-date “Free Palestine Tour” after his removal from Ed Sheeran’s tour. The rapper said the new shows would support organizations assisting Palestinians. The dates included Dublin on October 25, Paris on October 29, and London on October 30. Macklemore also said U.S. dates and additional artists would be announced later.
Macklemore announces three-date “Free Palestine Tour” after Ed Sheeran fallout and criticizes artists who remain apolitical
Macklemore announced the tour on September 24 following weeks of controversy around his Ed Sheeran tour exit. He said proceeds would benefit organizations supporting Palestinians and the movement.
“If these last couple of weeks have shown us anything, it’s that something has shifted over the last three years,” Macklemore wrote on Instagram. “There has been a collective awakening around Palestinian liberation, the power of billionaires that try to censor that call, and what we expect from artists right now.” He then addressed artists who avoided political positions. “It’s 2026. Being apolitical during a genocide doesn’t work anymore,” Macklemore wrote. He urged artists to “show up, educate themselves and be in community.”
The rapper also argued that performers should use their platforms beyond entertainment. “What happened to me is bigger than one artist or one stage,” he wrote. Macklemore added that people should pay attention when powerful individuals influence which voices appear onstage.
Macklemore’s comments followed his removal from Sheeran’s tour after pro-Palestinian remarks during New Jersey performances. Sheeran said the decision was not his, while venue owners and promoters became part of the dispute. Macklemore said he spent the following week contacting artists who supported Palestinians publicly. He said those artists understood their platforms mattered beyond moments when speaking felt safe.
The tour’s announced beneficiary list included Anera, Glia, Gaza Soup Kitchen and Taawon. Other organizations included HEAL Palestine, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA. Presale tickets were scheduled for September 28, with general sales beginning September 30. Macklemore also confirmed additional artists and U.S. dates would follow.
The announcement extended a dispute that had already affected Sheeran’s tour. Finneas and other opening acts also left the tour after Macklemore’s departure.
