American rapper Macklemore has been removed from Ed Sheeran's upcoming US stadium tour following controversy over his pro-Palestinian remarks. The Grammy-winning artist announced his removal on Monday, stating he was dropped after shouting "Free Palestine" during a September 4 concert in New Jersey.
Macklemore specifically blamed New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft for his exclusion from the tour. According to the rapper, Ed Sheeran informed him last week that Kraft intervened and stated Macklemore would not be permitted to perform in his stadium amid the growing controversy over the statements.
The incident highlights the ongoing friction between artists' political expressions and venue owners' control over major public performances. The decision to drop Macklemore followed direct pressure from venue management over his public criticism and political declarations.
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