Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour has been hit by a mass withdrawal of its supporting acts following the removal of rapper Macklemore from the remaining US dates.
Finneas, Lukas Graham, Aaron Rowe and Irish folk band Beoga all announced their departures on Tuesday, September 15, citing concerns over the circumstances surrounding Macklemore’s exit and expressing support for his stance on Palestine.
Finneas, who was scheduled to join Sheeran for six South American shows later this year, said artists should be able to speak about issues affecting oppressed people.
“Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed,” he wrote, adding that he stood with Palestine and its people.
Irish singer Aaron Rowe also withdrew despite describing Sheeran as a friend who had significantly influenced his career. In his statement, Rowe referred to Ireland’s history of famine, occupation and colonialism before declaring his support for Palestine.
Beoga, which has performed as Sheeran’s live backing band, said it was also leaving the tour. The group described its decision as a protest against what it called the “silencing of Macklemore by zionist lobbies”.
Danish band Lukas Graham similarly announced its withdrawal, arguing that artists should be able to speak about civilian deaths and suffering without their financial standing determining who gets heard.
The departures followed Sheeran’s explanation that Macklemore’s removal was not his decision. The British singer said the promoter and several venues had made it clear they would not host the shows if Macklemore remained on the bill.
Macklemore had come under renewed scrutiny after expressing support for Palestinians during a September 4 performance at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, where he also said “Free Palestine”.
The developments have left Sheeran’s upcoming tour dates without the supporting acts originally announced.
