Ed Sheeran has publicly addressed the removal of Macklemore from his upcoming tour dates, clarifying that the decision did not originate with him. In an Instagram statement, the artist explained that venue operators and touring promoter Messina Touring Group made the final call regarding the rapper’s departure from the schedule.
Sheeran revealed that he spent the past week attempting to negotiate a resolution after learning that certain venues objected to Macklemore’s participation. The singer said he held discussions with stadium owners, including Gillette Stadium proprietor Robert Kraft, in hopes of changing their positions. These efforts proved unsuccessful, and he ultimately accepted the venues’ and promoter’s decision as final.
In his statement, Sheeran emphasized his respect for Macklemore as an artist and noted that he had invited him to join the tour with the understanding that the opening act could perform whatever material he chose. However, Sheeran explained that he could not risk jeopardizing the remainder of his tour schedule, which would have disappointed fans and left crew members and other performers without work.
Sheeran also addressed broader concerns about the conflict in the Middle East, stating he finds the suffering on all sides appalling. He defended his decision not to use his professional platform for political statements, citing his responsibility to maintain a safe space for his diverse audience of fans of all ages and backgrounds.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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