Ed Sheeran Addresses Macklemore Removal at Philadelphia Show

Views 20 Published by September 20, 2026

Ed Sheeran opened his concert in Philadelphia on September 20 to address Macklemore's removal from the tour and his stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, stating his concerns about venue content pre-approval and calling for unity at his shows.

Ed Sheeran opened his concert in Philadelphia on September 20 by addressing the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal from the tour, concerns over venues restricting artists’ speech, and his own views on Israel and Palestine.

“This is not usually how I would open the show,” Sheeran told the crowd, “but before I play some songs tonight, I hope it’s okay if I say a few words about this last week.” He acknowledged making difficult decisions and apologized for any disappointment caused.

Sheeran expressed concern about venues pre-approving performance content. “I am deeply worried about the idea that venues should pre-approve content for performance,” he said. “This should never happen in the free world.”

On the Israel-Palestine conflict, Sheeran stated: “What happened in Israel at the Nova music festival on October 7th was horrific and compounded centuries of Jewish pain. What is happening in Gaza is catastrophic, unjustifiable, and disproportionate.” He added that he is speaking with people across the spectrum to determine how to contribute to helping victims.

Sheeran emphasized that his concerts remain “a safe space for everyone” and a place where people with opposing views can unite through music about “love, hope, and unity.”