Macklemore’s newly announced tour aimed at supporting Palestinians saw all three shows quickly selling out. The tour, dubbed the Free Palestine tour, was announced by the four-time Grammy winner with October dates in Dublin, Paris, and London. The artist has yet to disclose who will be performing alongside him, but the initial post mentioned that the shows will feature the rapper “and friends,” with lineup details to be revealed soon.
The European tour was announced following Macklemore being removed as an opening act for Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour. Expressing his gratitude on Instagram, Macklemore emphasized the swift organization of the shows and the belief in musicians standing in solidarity with Palestine to raise funds for the cause.
The shows, according to Live Nation’s press release, will benefit various Palestinian aid organizations such as Gaza Soup Kitchen, Palestinian Youth Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, and UNRWA USA. Despite inquiries about potential shows in Canada, there has been no response from Macklemore’s representatives.
Macklemore’s removal from Sheeran’s tour was a result of threats from venue owners in the U.S., including Robert Kraft, chairman and CEO of The Kraft Group. This action followed Macklemore’s long-standing pro-Palestinian stance, which he has openly expressed for years.
After Sheeran’s clarification on the situation, all other openers, including his backing band, withdrew from the tour. The shows scheduled at Gillette Stadium were ultimately canceled due to severe weather conditions.
