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Bob Geldof Defends Ed Sheeran Amid Tour Controversy
Bob Geldof defended Ed Sheeran after Macklemore was removed from Sheeran's 'Loop' tour for making a political speech, an incident that prompted several other artists to drop out.
Bob Geldof defended Ed Sheeran in the dispute over Macklemore's removal from Sheeran's Loop tour. Geldof said artists have the right to decide whether to use their platforms to speak about political issues. He also said he appreciated Macklemore and the musicians who left the tour.
Geldof directed his criticism at Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft and the tour organizers. Sheeran addressed the dispute during his return to the stage in Philadelphia on September 19, saying he had made mistakes because of the Macklemore controversy. He said the dispute made him question whether he wanted to be an artist and that he had never intended to be an activist musician.
Sheeran also said he was concerned about the idea of venues approving artists' content in advance. Macklemore made Free Palestine statements during support performances at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and performed the protest song Hind's Hall. Macklemore's removal from the tour led FINNEAS, Lukas Graham, Rowe and Beoga to withdraw from the tour.
Macklemore pledged to donate all of his $1 million in tour earnings to six organizations supporting Palestinians. Maruja said she hoped the dispute would direct attention to what is happening in Palestine.
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