U2 defends Macklemore following his removal from Ed Sheeran tour

Irish rock band U2 has spoken out in defense of rapper Macklemore after he was removed from singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran's United States tour, NME reported. Speaking to BBC News, U2 guitarist The Edge stated that billionaire venue owners do not have the right to censor musicians. He expressed support for Macklemore's right to speak freely as an artist, while also stating that Sheeran should not be vilified over the dispute. [1]

The controversy began in September 2026 when Sheeran and his team removed Macklemore as an opening act on the Loop Tour, according to Wikipedia. The decision followed onstage pro-Palestine statements made by Macklemore during two concerts in New Jersey. The removal occurred after pressure from venue owners, including businessman Robert Kraft, and pro-Israel advocacy groups. Statements regarding the matter were published on social media by Macklemore, Kraft, and Sheeran shortly after the incident. [1][5]

The removal led to wider disruptions for the tour's scheduled lineup, according to Wikipedia. By September 15, 2026, all other opening acts, including Aaron Rowe, Finneas, Lukas Graham, and Irish band Beoga, had withdrawn from the tour. In addition, Outlook India reported that Macklemore stated nine major United States arenas refused to host his Free Palestine Tour after his departure from Sheeran's tour. [3][5]

Macklemore has continued to perform independently following the tour exit, OK Magazine reported. Musician Hozier joined Macklemore on stage during a surprise-packed show in Dublin. Far Out Magazine also reported on U2 joining the ongoing debate surrounding censorship within the live music industry. [2][4]