Macklemore’s newly announced tour aimed at supporting Palestinians saw all three shows sell out immediately, according to the artist. The Free Palestine tour, scheduled for October in Dublin, Paris, and London, was announced by the four-time Grammy winner last week. While the lineup for the shows remains undisclosed, Macklemore mentioned that the performances will include the rapper himself along with other artists, with further details on the lineup to be revealed soon.
The European tour was revealed shortly after Macklemore was removed as an opening act for Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour. Expressing his gratitude on Instagram, Macklemore expressed his astonishment at the swift sell-out of the shows, emphasizing the importance of musicians showing solidarity with Palestine and using their platform to raise funds.
Although there has been no confirmation on Canadian shows, Macklemore extended his thanks to the audiences in Dublin, Paris, and London. The shows are set to benefit various Palestinian aid organizations, including Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA.
The decision to drop Macklemore from Sheeran’s tour came after venue owners in the U.S. threatened to cancel Sheeran’s shows if the rapper continued as the opening act, as stated by Messina Touring Group to Rolling Stone magazine. Sheeran later acknowledged the pressure from individuals like Robert Kraft, chairman and CEO of The Kraft Group, leading to the removal of Macklemore from the tour lineup.
Macklemore, known for his pro-Palestinian stance, has been vocal about his support for the cause over the years. Following the controversy, all other openers, including Sheeran’s backing band, withdrew from the tour. Despite the upheaval, the shows at Gillette Stadium were ultimately canceled due to severe weather conditions.