Newsletters
US rapper Macklemore says nine major arenas in the United States have declined to host his “Free Palestine Tour,” with proceeds planned for organizations that advocate for the Palestinian people.
In an Instagram statement, Macklemore listed the venues as Madison Square Garden, Prudential Center, Barclays Center, UBS Arena, Intuit Dome, Kia Forum, Crypto.com Arena, Chase Center and Climate Pledge Arena.
He said the tour has covered Dublin, Paris and London, and that a US leg was also planned. According to Macklemore, the venues first offered suitable dates but “closed the doors completely” after learning the tour would support Palestine.
“In 20 years of touring, I have never experienced anything like this,” he said.
Macklemore alleged that influential figures in the entertainment industry are trying to silence artists who openly back Palestine. He said he will keep organizing benefit concerts despite the setbacks. The tour’s final show took place in London on Oct. 31.
Macklemore has voiced support for Palestine on multiple occasions since Israel launched its offensive on Gaza in 2023. He donated proceeds from “Hind’s Hall 2,” a song recorded with Palestinian artists, to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA).
The Grammy-winning rapper was also removed from British singer Ed Sheeran’s US tour over his pro-Palestine remarks. US billionaire Robert Kraft reportedly behind the decision.
Kraft said he opposed Macklemore performing at Gillette Stadium, which he owns, and claimed the rapper made “antisemitic remarks” in recent performances.
Macklemore made the remarks while opening Sheeran’s shows at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in September. Tour promoter Messina Touring Group said venues on the remaining dates would not allow concerts with him on the bill.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
