Zach Bryan Sets Attendance Record at Gillette Stadium, Wears 'Free Palestine' Shirt for Second Night
The country singer's concert drew a record crowd, with his attire continuing a pointed political statement.
Country music artist Zach Bryan established a new attendance record at Gillette Stadium on Saturday, drawing 73,538 fans to his sold-out performance. This marked the second consecutive night Bryan wore a T-shirt emblazoned with "Free Palestine."
The official Instagram account for Gillette Stadium shared photos of the large crowd, though social media users noted the absence of close-up shots of Bryan, particularly of his shirt. Comments on the stadium's post questioned the selective imagery, with some suggesting it was an attempt to downplay Bryan's political statement.
Bryan's choice of attire is seen as a direct response to Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft, who previously banned rapper Macklemore from performing at the venue. Kraft's decision followed Macklemore's vocal support for Palestine during a performance opening for Ed Sheeran.
The shirt worn by Bryan featured white, 3D lettering reading "FREE PALESTINE," with a depiction of a pine tree separating it from the phrase "AN APPEAL TO HEAVEN." This slogan and imagery are historically linked to an American Revolutionary War campaign, with the National Park Service noting its association with colonists who believed divine intervention would aid their fight for natural rights.
Bryan, who served in the U.S. Navy for eight years, was not alone in his display of solidarity. Members of his band also wore shirts supporting Palestine. Drummer Nate Head's jersey bore the name of Hind Rajab, a five-year-old Palestinian girl reportedly killed by the Israel Defense Forces. Guitarist Noah Le Gros was pictured on stage wearing a Palestine soccer jersey in front of signage for Kraft Sports and Entertainment.
This incident occurs in the wake of related events affecting Ed Sheeran's tour. Following Macklemore's ban, Sheeran's opening acts and band members withdrew from his tour in solidarity. Sheeran has since enlisted Isaac Slade, frontman of The Fray, as a surprise guest for his Atlanta concert. Earlier in September, Sheeran reportedly became emotional during a concert, stating that close family and friends had distanced themselves from him after the controversy surrounding Macklemore.