From Rolling Stone · Larisha Paul · · 1m
Macklemore's U.S. Tour Rejected for Free Palestine
Nine U.S. venues denied Macklemore's Free Palestine tour, citing hate speech concerns.
In brief
Nine U.S. venues denied Macklemore's Free Palestine tour, citing hate speech concerns. Macklemore's Free Palestine tour was rejected by nine U.S. venues after they claimed his shows would promote hate speech. Originally reported by Rolling Stone.
Macklemore's Free Palestine Tour Launch
Macklemore launched his Free Palestine tour after being removed from Ed Sheeran's tour.
Three Sold-Out Shows
The tour had sold-out shows in Paris, Dublin, and London.
Nine U.S. Venues Rejected
Nine U.S. venues including Madison Square Garden and Barclays Center denied Macklemore's tour.
Venues Cited Hate Speech
Venues said Macklemore's Free Palestine tour would promote hate speech.
Macklemore's Response
Macklemore called the venues' decision a threat to free speech and Palestinian liberation.
“The people have spoken. We want an end to the genocide and we want a Free Palestine. The arenas have made their decision. Now we’ll make ours.”
Venues' Reasoning
Venues claimed they protect their guests from hate speech and prioritize business relationships.
Macklemore's Stance
Macklemore said he would not retreat into silence over venue rejections.
“If they think the threat of never playing another arena in America will make me retreat into silence, they got me fucked up.”
Artists Join Support
Artists like Hozier and Kneecap joined Macklemore's tour in solidarity.
What matters most
Macklemore's Free Palestine tour was rejected by nine U.S. venues after they claimed his shows would promote hate speech.
