Ed Sheeran Faces Backlash as Radio Station Pulls Music Amid Macklemore Controversy
An Irish radio station announced it will no longer play Ed Sheeran's music following the removal of Macklemore from his tour due to pro-Palestinian statements.
Ed Sheeran is facing growing backlash after rapper Macklemore was removed from his "Loop Tour" for his public stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In response to the controversy and listener feedback, Irish radio station Classic Hits Radio announced it will cease playing Sheeran's music for the foreseeable future.
Dave Kelly, group programme director at Bay Broadcasting, which operates Classic Hits Radio, stated that the decision was carefully considered and not a personal judgment on Sheeran. He added that the station believes it is important to listen to its audience and stand with Irish artists who make significant professional decisions based on their convictions.
The controversy began when Macklemore repeatedly called for a "Free Palestine" and performed his song "Hind’s Hall" during his opening act at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on September 4 and 5. Following these performances, he was dropped as an opening act for Sheeran's tour.
Sheeran addressed the situation on Instagram, explaining that venues on his upcoming tour dates threatened to cancel shows if Macklemore continued as a supporting act. He stated that he attempted to negotiate with venues, including conversations with New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, but the decision to remove Macklemore was final. Sheeran also noted that Macklemore's contract was with the promoter, not directly with him.
Sheeran emphasized his intention to keep his platform a space for diplomacy and open conversation, stating, "There is no neutrality against oppression, only complicity." He added, "Those who come to my shows do not expect a political forum... I choose to use my fame and platform to be a place of safety and sanctuary, to maintain diplomacy and keep conversations open, not closed."
In solidarity with Macklemore's removal, four other supporting acts, including Irish acts Aaron Rowe and Beoga, Lukas Graham, and Finneas, also withdrew from the tour. Additionally, pro-Palestine groups Philly Palestine Coalition and Shut Down D&Z have organized a protest outside Sheeran's concert in Philadelphia on September 19, calling for action and liberation for Palestine.