Singer Macklemore responds to backlash over ‘Free Palestine’ speech

Macklemore has responded to criticism over his “Free Palestine” message during Ed Sheeran’s MetLife Stadium concerts, saying his remarks were intended to support Palestinian freedom and were not an attack on Jewish people.

The rapper addressed the controversy on Monday, September 7, after his opening performances at Sheeran’s New Jersey shows prompted criticism and calls for him to be removed from the remaining US dates of the tour. Macklemore said his message was focused on supporting Palestinian freedom and opposing the suffering of civilians, rather than criticising Jewish people.

During his performance, the rapper called for freedom for Palestinians and others around the world before performing his 2024 protest song “Hind’s Hall.” Images related to Gaza were displayed on the stadium screens during the set.

The performance subsequently drew criticism, with an Israeli-American organisation launching a petition calling on Sheeran and tour organisers to remove Macklemore from the remaining US shows.

In his response on Instagram, Macklemore rejected the suggestion that expressing support for Palestinians amounted to an attack on Jewish people. 

The rapper has publicly spoken about the Israel-Palestine conflict for several years. He released “Hind’s Hall” in 2024 amid pro-Palestinian demonstrations on university campuses.

The controversy has also drawn attention from singer Pink, who reposted an Instagram message from StopAntisemitism criticising Macklemore’s performance. Pink did not add any comments of her own explaining her position. 

Sheeran has not publicly addressed the controversy or the calls for Macklemore’s removal from the tour. Macklemore remains part of Sheeran’s tour.