Ed Sheeran's remaining opening acts quit tour in solidarity with Macklemore

Sheeran tour loses opening acts after Macklemore is dropped over Palestine comments. (Photo/AP)

All remaining opening acts and touring musicians on Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour have quit in solidarity with American rapper Macklemore, following his dismissal from the stadium lineup over pro-Palestinian comments.

The coordinated walkout leaves the British singer-songwriter’s tour in turmoil after scheduled opening performers Aaron Rowe, Lukas Graham and Finneas confirmed via Instagram that they will not perform.

Traditional Irish group Beoga, who had been performing as Sheeran's primary touring backing band, also announced their departure.

"Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed," said Finneas, the multi-Grammy-winning producer and frequent collaborator of sister Billie Eilish.

"I have decided to withdraw from my upcoming tour dates with Ed Sheeran. I stand with Palestine and its people."

Irish solidarity

Irish performers Rowe and Beoga pointed to Ireland's historical experience to explain their withdrawal, with Rowe stating that the Irish people "know all too well about genocide, forced famine and violent occupation."

The widespread departures follow Sheeran's statement on Tuesday, in which he attributed the decision to drop Macklemore to concert promoters and stadium operators rather than his personal choice.

Sheeran maintained that he did not want to use his "professional platform for politics."

"I respect Macklemore's strength of purpose to stand up and shout for what he believes," Sheeran stated.

"However, there is room for multiple approaches to the same end: peace."

Macklemore revealed on Monday that several major venue operators—led by Robert Kraft, whose group owns Massachusetts' Gillette Stadium—informed tour promoter Messina Touring Group that the rapper would be barred from performing after shouting "Free Palestine" and delivering his protest song "Hind's Hall" on stage.

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Source: TRT