Inside the antisemitism accusations against Macklemore and Pink
Macklemore continues speaking about Palestine after being removed from Ed Sheeran’s tour and facing accusations of antisemitism
The controversy surrounding Macklemore and Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour began after Macklemore used his opening set at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey to speak about the war in Gaza. During his September 4 and 5 performances, he called for a Free Palestine and performed his protest song Hind’s Hall, which includes imagery related to the conflict. His comments quickly drew criticism from Jewish advocacy groups, including the Israeli-American Council and StopAntisemitism.
The backlash included accusations of antisemitism, which Macklemore has rejected. He has argued that criticizing Israel and speaking out over the deaths of Palestinians is not the same as expressing hatred toward Jewish people. Pink, who is Jewish, entered the conversation after sharing a StopAntisemitism post criticizing Macklemore’s performance. She later clarified her position, saying she was not calling for him to be silenced while also saying Palestinians deserve dignity, safety, and a future.
Macklemore was ultimately removed from the remaining U.S. dates of Sheeran’s tour. Venue owners for the upcoming shows indicated they would not host the concerts with Macklemore on the lineup. Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, later said he opposed Macklemore’s appearance, citing his recent comments and what he described as previous antisemitic rhetoric and imagery. Macklemore has disputed that characterization.
Sheeran addressed the decision shortly afterward, making clear that removing Macklemore was the promoter’s decision and not his own. He said he had spent the week trying to find a resolution while expressing his opposition to the suffering of civilians on both sides of the conflict. Following the announcement, Finneas, Lukas Graham, Beoga and Aaron Rowe also withdrew from upcoming dates.
The departures added another layer to the controversy, as the discussion shifted from Macklemore’s original performance to the decision to remove him from the tour. For Sheeran, however, the situation remained separate from his own position on the conflict.
Sheeran said he respected Macklemore’s convictions while maintaining that his shows were not intended to be political forums. Macklemore’s latest statement shifted the focus back to the issue behind his original comments. He announced plans to donate $1 million in net tour earnings to six organizations supporting Palestinians.
Feature image Instagram/ @Macklemore
About The Author
Alejandra Benitez
My name is Alejandra Benitez and I was born and raised in the DMV. Having close proximity to Washington D.C. means I am accustomed to a fast paced environment as things are constantly changing. For me, the EDM scene has provided so much comfort and space to really find myself even amongst chaos. My first ever show was Zeds Dead and it truly changed my outlook on community and further affirmed my love for music. I am a basshead at heart but enjoy exploring new genres and artists. Being a writer for Exron has given me an amazing opportunity to learn more about the electronic music industry and I love being able to express myself creatively. Some of my favorite artists include Levity, Rezz, Tape B, Disco Lines, and Sub Focus.
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