Macklemore Announces "Free Palestine" Tour to Benefit Humanitarian Aid Organizations

Macklemore is organizing a "Free Palestine" tour, a series of concerts featuring the US rapper and fellow musicians. The shows aim to raise funds for humanitarian causes in Palestine.

This announcement follows Macklemore's exclusion from Ed Sheeran's US stadium tour. Macklemore had previously called for a "free Palestine" on stage, stating his support for the people of Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

His September 4th speech led some venues to refuse him bookings. Ed Sheeran, in response to the backlash over Macklemore's removal, stated he was not responsible for the decision and is "not complicit."

Following this, other support acts on Sheeran's tour, including Aaron Rowe, Finneas, Lukas Graham, and Beoga, withdrew.

Macklemore shared on Instagram that recent events highlight a shift in public awareness regarding Palestinian liberation. He noted the influence of billionaires attempting to censor such calls and what audiences now expect from artists. He stated that in 2026, remaining apolitical during a genocide is no longer viable, and people expect artists to engage, educate, and use their platforms beyond entertainment, pushing back against censorship.

Macklemore believes his experience is part of a larger issue where those with wealth can control which voices are heard, a situation he urges everyone to consider.

During his solo performance in Philadelphia on September 19th, Ed Sheeran read a statement apologizing for "making mistakes" and acknowledged being caught in a complex debate about free speech and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He expressed a desire not to disappoint fans and not to be an "activist musician."

Some fans protested outside the venue, with a few selling their tickets. Others remained supportive of Sheeran. He addressed the crowd emotionally, mentioning advice to cancel and feeling abandoned by some, but also noting the support of thousands attending.

Reports suggest Ed Sheeran has lost nearly half a million social media followers since the controversy began.

Macklemore commented on his freed-up schedule, explaining he has been contacting artists who have publicly supported Palestinians despite potential repercussions. He emphasized the importance of using platforms when it matters, not just when it's safe.

Details about the lineup for Macklemore's tour are still being finalized, as schedules and arrangements are ongoing. He stressed the current momentum and the need for continued action.

The tour kicks off in Dublin on October 26th. Given Ireland's history with occupation, many Irish musicians, including former Sheeran support act Aaron Rowe, have been vocal in their support for Palestine. Rowe explained his withdrawal by referencing Ireland's history of genocide, famine, and occupation, stating his need to remain true to his ancestors' fight for freedom.

The tour will benefit organizations such as Anera, Glia, Gaza Soup Kitchen, Taawon, Heal Palestine, Palestinian Youth Movement, Middle East Children’s Alliance, Jewish Voice for Peace, Medical Aid for Palestinians, Institute for Middle East Understanding, Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, and UNRWA USA.

These organizations focus on diverse areas of support for Palestinians, including medical care, humanitarian aid, education, community services, advocacy, organizing, and media work.

Additional tour dates are scheduled for Paris on October 29th and London on October 30th, with North American dates to follow. Fans can sign up for presale access on macklemore.com.