Macklemore chants “Free Palestine” at first concert after Sheeran tour removal

American rapper Macklemore chanted “Free Palestine” during a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, his first stage appearance since he was removed from the opening slot on Ed Sheeran’s North American tour over his pro-Palestinian statements.

American rapper Macklemore chanted “Free Palestine” on Thursday evening during a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, his first concert since he was removed from the opening slot on British singer Ed Sheeran’s North American tour.

Macklemore performed 17 songs and criticized the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency during the concert, speaking about people in the United States who are afraid to leave their homes. He also called for freedom for Sudan, Congo, Lebanon and Haiti, concluding by saying that the message would always be one of love.

Macklemore had chanted “Free Palestine” last September while opening for Sheeran at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. He also performed his 2024 protest song “Hind’s Hall,” stressing that calling for all people to be treated equally should not be controversial.

Macklemore later said that Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft and several other stadium owners objected to his participation, leading to his removal from the remaining shows on the North American leg of the tour. Several opening acts, including FINNEAS and Lukas Graham, withdrew in solidarity with him. Sheeran confirmed that the decision was made by the concert promoter, not by him.

Macklemore pledged to donate all of his earnings from Sheeran’s tour, amounting to $1 million, to organizations supporting Palestinians. His “Free Palestine” tour continues with concerts in Dublin on Oct. 26, Paris on Oct. 29 and London on Oct. 30, with proceeds going to support the Palestinian cause.