From Slate Magazine · Nadira Goffe · · 2m
Ed Sheeran’s Tour Crisis and Free Palestine Protest
Ed Sheeran drops Macklemore after Gaza protest, sparks refund chaos and a crowd that stays.
In brief
Ed Sheeran drops Macklemore after Gaza protest, sparks refund chaos and a crowd that stays. Sheeran’s tour continues with 50,000 fans despite political backlash, proving his audience values unity over controversy. Originally reported by Slate Magazine.
Macklemore Fired
Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran’s tour after a New Jersey performance where he displayed Gaza-related images.
“I love his stance and his songs on the genocide and his support and calling out billionaire bullshit”
Protesters Demand Refunds
Over 500 protesters outside Philadelphia’s stadium demanded refunds after Sheeran dropped Macklemore.
“We should not let corporate entities and wealthy people dictate what people can and cannot say”
Sheeran’s Insensitive Statement
Sheeran claimed he wasn’t complicit in the Gaza controversy but blamed his promoter for firing Macklemore.
“I am not complicit”
Refund Chaos
Protesters returned tickets to get refunds, with some upgrading seats to display 'Free Palestine' shirts.
“He will definitely see me because I’m a Puerto Rican New Yorker”
Sheeran’s Tour Continues
Sheeran performed for 50,000 fans despite political backlash, emphasizing unity over division.
“Today has been one of the weirdest days of my life”
Political Tensions
Macklemore’s Gaza protest led to Pink’s backlash and Sheeran’s tour being dropped by venues.
“Free Cuba to the Congo to Sudan to Iran”
Sheeran’s Emotional Speech
Sheeran broke down crying after saying 50,000 fans didn’t abandon him despite criticism.
“I really didn’t know whether I’d be even getting onstage again”
Refund Success
A protester successfully got a refund by persuading a woman to return her ticket.
“I got one!”
Sheeran’s Music
Sheeran performed with minimal backing, focusing on acoustic guitar and loop pedal.
“Thinking Out Loud”
Political Impact
Sheeran’s tour became a platform for free speech debates, with fans supporting Palestine.
“It’s not too late to get a refund”
Sheeran’s Stance
Sheeran avoided naming specific political groups but emphasized unity and love over division.
“I want my shows to be a place for unity, not division”
Refund Movement
Over 500 protesters outside Philadelphia’s stadium demanded refunds after Sheeran dropped Macklemore.
“We should not let corporate entities and wealthy people dictate what people can and cannot say”
Sheeran’s Tour
Sheeran’s tour continued with 50,000 fans despite political backlash, proving his audience values unity.
“Tonight has been honestly the best show of my life”
Political Backlash
Sheeran faced criticism for being too political, with fans supporting Palestine and others demanding refunds.
“I really didn’t know whether I’d be even getting onstage again”
Sheeran’s Response
Sheeran apologized for getting political but stressed the importance of fan support.
“I understand that people have children here”
Sheeran’s Legacy
Sheeran’s music has been a source of comfort for fans since his early YouTube days.
“Thinking Out Loud”
The short version
Sheeran’s tour continues with 50,000 fans despite political backlash, proving his audience values unity over controversy.
