Macklemore's History of Controversy Spans Grammy Wins to 'Free Palestine' Remarks

Rapper Macklemore has a long history of using his platform for activism, with his recent pro-Palestinian statements and subsequent removal from Ed Sheeran's "Loop Tour" being the latest in a series of controversies. His activism predates his remarks during the tour, which led to four supporting acts withdrawing in solidarity.

Macklemore, whose full name is Ben Haggerty, first gained mainstream recognition with the 2012 release of "The Heist." In 2014, he faced criticism after winning four Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Album over Kendrick Lamar. Macklemore later shared a social media post of a text message to Lamar stating that Lamar "should have won" the award, adding, "Just giving GKMC it's proper respect."

During the 2014 Grammy Awards, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis performed their song "Same Love," during which 33 couples, both same-sex and heterosexual, were married. Queen Latifah officiated the ceremony, and Madonna joined the performance. The same year, Macklemore drew criticism for an appearance at Seattle's Museum of Pop Culture where he wore a disguise, including a black wig, beard, and fake nose, which some interpreted as an anti-Semitic costume. He issued an apology, stating the costume was not intended to be a caricature of a Jewish man and that he meant no offense.

More recently, Macklemore has been vocal in his support for Palestinian rights. In 2023, he signed the Artists4Ceasefire letter, and in 2024, he released the song "Hind's Hall" in support of pro-Palestinian student protestors. During a performance at Seattle's Palestine Will Live Forever festival, he led a chant that included "F--- America," which drew significant criticism. He later addressed the incident on social media, acknowledging that his expressions are "not always expressed perfectly or politely" and that he sometimes "slip[s] up and get[s] caught in the moment."

Macklemore stated that his pro-Palestine stance has led to lost endorsements, shows, and business ties, but his support remains "unwavering." His removal from the remaining U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran's "Loop Tour" followed his "Free Palestine" remarks and performance of "Hind's Hall" during his opening act.

Ed Sheeran addressed Macklemore's departure, stating that the decision was made by the concert promoter and venues, not by him. Sheeran expressed being "appalled" by the conflict in Israel and Palestine. Macklemore's representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment.