Macklemore Announces Free Palestine Tour Following Ed Sheeran Dispute
Grammy Award-winning rapper Macklemore announced a three-date European concert run titled the Free Palestine tour, with all proceeds dedicated to organizations supporting Palestinian aid. The September announcement follows his removal as an opening act for the U.S. leg of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour. The dates include performances in Dublin, Paris, and London in late October, featuring the artist alongside guest musicians.
Ticket Sales and Sold-Out European Dates
Tickets for the three European shows sold out immediately following the announcement. The trek kicks off at Dublin’s 3Arena on Oct. 26, moves to Paris’ Accor Arena on Oct. 29, and concludes at London’s OVO Arena Wembley on Oct. 30. An artist presale opened on Monday via Macklemore’s official website.
Tour proceeds benefit humanitarian organizations in Gaza
Proceeds from the tour will benefit multiple humanitarian organizations providing relief in Gaza. The designated aid groups include Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, UNRWA USA, Anera, Glia, Taawon, HEAL Palestine, Middle East Children’s Alliance, Medical Aid for Palestinians, Institute for Middle East Understanding, and the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. Previously, Macklemore donated the $1 million he earned from his Loop Tour contract to Palestinian aid.
Stadium owners pressure promoter to remove Macklemore
The tour announcement follows Macklemore’s removal from Ed Sheeran’s North and South American tour dates. The promoter for Sheeran’s Loop Tour removed Macklemore following backlash to the rapper’s “Free Palestine” demonstrations on the MetLife Stadium stage in New Jersey, citing conversations with owners of other stadiums on the tour’s route who allegedly threatened to cancel dates unless Macklemore was dropped. Sheeran later clarified that Robert Kraft, chairman and CEO of The Kraft Group which owns Gillette Stadium, was one of the people threatening to cancel. In the wake of the controversy, all other supporting acts also withdrew from Sheeran’s tour in solidarity.
Which venues host the tour and who receives proceeds?
Which specific venues are hosting the Free Palestine tour?
The tour visits Dublin’s 3Arena on Oct. 26, Paris’ Accor Arena on Oct. 29, and London’s OVO Arena Wembley on Oct. 30.
Which aid groups receive the concert proceeds?
Proceeds benefit organizations such as Gaza Soup Kitchen, UNRWA USA, Jewish Voice for Peace, Palestinian Youth Movement, Anera, and the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund.
Who prompted Macklemore’s removal from the Ed Sheeran tour?
The promoter removed Macklemore following pressure from stadium owners, with Sheeran confirming that Robert Kraft of The Kraft Group was among those threatening cancellations.
How much did Macklemore donate from his original tour earnings?
Macklemore donated the $1 million he earned from his contract for Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour to Palestinian aid organizations.