Macklemore’s recent tour announcement to support Palestinian causes saw all three shows selling out rapidly. The tour, named the Free Palestine tour, was unveiled by the four-time Grammy winner just a week ago, featuring dates in Dublin, Paris, and London.
While the lineup for the shows remains undisclosed, the initial post suggested that the performances would include the rapper “and friends.” Macklemore assured fans that details about the artists joining him on stage would be revealed soon.
The European tour was initiated after Macklemore was removed as the opener for Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour leg. Expressing his gratitude on Instagram, Macklemore shared his surprise and appreciation for the overwhelming support received for the fast-organized shows.
The tour aims to support various Palestinian aid organizations, such as Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA. Macklemore expressed his gratitude to the audiences in Dublin, Paris, and London for their enthusiastic response.
The decision to drop Macklemore from Sheeran’s tour was influenced by threats from owners of American venues, including Robert Kraft, chairman of The Kraft Group. Despite the controversy, Macklemore has been vocal about his pro-Palestinian stance for years.
Following Sheeran’s acknowledgment of the situation, all other openers, including his backing band, withdrew from the tour. Sheeran clarified during a show in Philadelphia that he never intended to be an activist musician. The shows at Gillette Stadium were eventually canceled due to severe weather conditions.
