Rapper Macklemore says he was dropped from Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour after New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft organized a boycott among stadium owners over the artist’s onstage remarks supporting Palestinians. According to statements released by Macklemore and reported by outlets including NBC News and The New York Times, the removal follows performances where the rapper shouted “Free Palestine” and displayed Palestinian imagery.
Robert Kraft and Stadium Owners Organize Boycott
According to Macklemore’s Instagram statement published on Monday, Ed Sheeran called him to explain that Robert Kraft had contacted the singer-songwriter to state that Macklemore was not welcome at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, a venue owned by Kraft Entertainment + Sports Group. Macklemore wrote that Kraft rallied other stadium owners who issued an ultimatum regarding the tour’s dates.
https://x.com/macklemore/status/2097033800811507990
In a statement provided to NBC News on Monday, Robert Kraft confirmed the decision. Kraft stated that the action followed Macklemore’s comments during New Jersey shows and what Kraft described as a “broader history of rhetoric and imagery that we believe has been deeply offensive and hurtful to the Jewish community.” Kraft added that Gillette Stadium aims to maintain a welcoming environment for all guests.
Differing Stances on Advocacy and Peace
Kraft, who is Jewish and founded the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism in 2019, stated that the decision was not an attempt to stifle Palestinian advocacy or diminish Palestinian suffering. Instead, Kraft blamed Hamas for the ongoing conflict, stating that much of his focus over the last decade has been directed at fighting antisemitism and hate.
“I would welcome the opportunity to sit down with Macklemore and discuss the facts, because ultimately our goal is the same — peace for all people, an end to suffering, and an end to all hate,” Kraft said in his statement to NBC News.
Macklemore described Sheeran as a friend caught in a difficult position after a week of difficult conversations that ended in fundamental disagreement. According to Macklemore, Sheeran stated that the words “Free Palestine” and Palestinian flags were hurtful to individuals he spoke with. Macklemore countered that if those words caused more offense than the deaths of children in Gaza, a fundamental disconnect existed.
Macklemore’s Political Track Record
The controversy stems from performances including a set at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey earlier this month, where Macklemore opened for Sheeran and performed his 2024 song “Hind’s Hall.” The song references anti-war protests at Columbia University and criticizes U.S. funding for military actions in Gaza. Video footage shared by Macklemore showed him telling the crowd that part of his intention in joining the tour was to utilize stadium platforms to advocate for Palestinians.
Macklemore has a history of releasing socially and politically charged music, including his 2012 single “Same Love,” which advocated for same-sex marriage. His recent remarks and performances on the current tour drew immediate public controversy and criticism from figures including singer Pink, according to NBC News reporting.