From Rolling Stone · Larisha Paul · · 1m 20s
Massive Attack calls out Ed Sheeran over Macklemore censorship
The band demands artists stop silencing peers over Palestine advocacy, sparking industry reckoning.
In brief
The band demands artists stop silencing peers over Palestine advocacy, sparking industry reckoning. Major artists are now publicly refusing to stay silent when peers face professional consequences for supporting Palestinian rights. Originally reported by Rolling Stone.
Macklemore dropped from Sheeran tour
The rapper was removed from Ed Sheeran's dates after venue owners refused to host him over his public support for Palestinians in Gaza.
Massive Attack demands solidarity
The band posted that no artist should tolerate censoring another artist, standing with those risking careers to defend Palestinian rights.
“No artist should tolerate the censorship of another artist, however many millions of dollars are in play.”
Sheeran's neutrality gets pushback
The band criticized Sheeran's claim to maintain diplomacy and safety, saying entertainment cannot be bigger than resisting genocide.
“Entertainment can never be bigger than resisting the apartheid & genocide of fellow human beings.”
Multiple acts withdraw in solidarity
Finneas, Lukas Graham, and Aaron Rowe dropped from the tour, joining fans canceling tickets to stand with their conscience.
Garbage calls it a turning point
The band said the moment shows global consciousness has shifted and the normalization of apartheid will no longer be tolerated in mainstream culture.
“This is a clear and undeniable sign that the global consciousness has shifted.”
Massive Attack's years of activism
The band was banned from Singapore for displaying the Palestinian flag onstage, released a Gaza relief charity EP, and launched an artist alliance against industry intimidation.
What to remember
Major artists are now publicly refusing to stay silent when peers face professional consequences for supporting Palestinian rights.
