Ed Sheeran Faces Backlash as Irish Radio Station Bans His Music

An Irish radio station announced Thursday it will no longer play music by Ed Sheeran for the "foreseeable future," citing listener feedback and the controversy surrounding the removal of rapper Macklemore from the singer’s US tour.

Dave Kelly, group program director at Bay Broadcasting, which operates Classic Hits Radio, stated the decision was "carefully considered" and not a personal judgment on Sheeran. He added that the station wanted to "listen to our audience and to stand alongside Irish artists who have made what is undoubtedly a significant professional decision based on their own convictions." Kelly further noted the station believes in "peace, humanity and respect" and the right for individuals and artists to express their views.

The controversy began after Macklemore repeatedly called for a "Free Palestine" and performed his song "Hind's Hall" during his opening performances at MetLife Stadium on September 4 and 5. Following these performances, Macklemore was dropped as an opening act on Sheeran’s Loop Tour.

Macklemore alleged that New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft pressured Sheeran to remove him from the tour, threatening that he would not be allowed to perform at Gillette Stadium and encouraging other stadium owners to issue similar ultimatums. Sheeran confirmed this account in an Instagram post, stating that venues communicated they would cancel shows if Macklemore remained as support. He also mentioned direct talks with promoters and activists to find a resolution, but the venues' and promoters' decisions were final.

Sheeran asserted he is not complicit in the conflict and has his own views, but chooses not to use his platform for political statements, as his audience includes many young people. He expressed respect for Macklemore's stance but believes in multiple approaches to achieving peace and aims to maintain his shows as a "place of safety and sanctuary."

Following Macklemore’s removal, four other supporting acts, including Irish artists Aaron Rowe and Beoga, Lukas Graham, and Finneas, withdrew from the tour in solidarity.

In addition to the radio station’s decision, pro-Palestine groups Philly Palestine Coalition and Shut Down D&Z have organized a protest outside Sheeran’s Philadelphia concert on September 19. The groups criticized Sheeran’s decision to remove Macklemore, stating there is "no neutrality against oppression, only complicity."