Macklemore’s newly announced tour to support Palestinians saw all three shows selling out rapidly. The four-time Grammy winner unveiled the Dublin, Paris, and London dates for the Free Palestine tour just a week ago. The lineup for the tour, described as featuring the rapper “and friends,” is yet to be disclosed, with Macklemore promising that details will be announced soon.
This European tour was announced following Macklemore being removed from Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour. Expressing his gratitude on Instagram, Macklemore highlighted the swift organization of the shows and the power of musicians standing in solidarity with Palestine.
The shows, organized to benefit Palestinian aid organizations such as Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA, received overwhelming support. While the possibility of expanding the tour to Canada remains uncertain, Macklemore extended his appreciation to the Dublin, Paris, and London audiences for their enthusiastic reception.
The decision to drop Macklemore from Sheeran’s tour stemmed from threats by owners of American venues to cancel shows if the rapper continued as the opening act. Sheeran later addressed the situation, mentioning Robert Kraft, chairman of The Kraft Group, as one of the influential figures involved in the decision.
Macklemore’s long-standing pro-Palestinian stance has been evident in his past statements, reflecting his commitment to the cause. Following the controversy, other openers, including Sheeran’s backing band, withdrew from the tour. The shows at Gillette Stadium were eventually canceled due to severe weather conditions.