Macklemore back on stage after being kicked off Sheeran's tour. "My message will always be love"

American rapper Macklemore launched his new Free Palestine tour with a sold-out performance at the 3Arena in Dublin on Monday. The Grammy-winning artist opened the concert with a speech expressing public support for Palestine, stating that two words were all that was needed to call for recognition of shared humanity. He declared that these words, born of love and liberation, were not directed against anyone nor intended to cause division. Instead, he argued, they served as a plea for freedom, dignity, and the right to exist without fear. Macklemore noted that while his statements had become more controversial than the suffering that necessitated them, music has historically offered a space for resistance and community unity. The tour includes upcoming dates in Paris and London later this month, followed by shows across the United States. All proceeds from the concerts will be donated to organizations providing healthcare, humanitarian aid, education, community support, and advocacy for Palestinians. Beneficiaries include Anera, Glia, Gaza Soup Kitchen, Taawon, Heal Palestine, the Palestinian Youth Movement, the Middle East Children’s Alliance, Jewish Voice for Peace, Medical Aid for Palestinians, the Institute for Middle East Understanding, the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, and UNRWA USA. Tickets for the initial European leg sold out immediately upon release last month. This return to the stage follows Macklemore’s removal from the opening act lineup for British pop star Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour in September. The decision came after two performances in New Jersey where Macklemore publicly supported Palestine. Some stadium owners, including Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, opposed his appearances. Following the exclusion, several other artists, including American singer Finneas, withdrew from Sheeran’s tour in solidarity. Sheeran stated during a September concert in Philadelphia that the organizers made the decision, not him personally. He acknowledged that some friends and family members distanced themselves due to the controversy, adding that such situations reveal who one’s true friends are. At the Dublin show, numerous Irish celebrities joined Macklemore on stage, including singer Hozier, the rap trio Kneecap, and actor Liam Cunningham. The folk group Beoga, which had previously withdrawn from Sheeran’s tour, also performed. Hollywood actor Mark Ruffalo addressed the audience via video link. Earlier this week, on Thursday, Macklemore performed at the Red Rocks amphitheater in Colorado. It was his first solo concert since the September incident. During that set, he chanted Free Palestine to loud approval from the crowd. He also expressed support for residents of Sudan, Congo, Lebanon, and Haiti, as well as Americans fearful of leaving their homes due to actions by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. He emphasized that his message would always be based on love. Macklemore, known for hits such as Thrift Shop and Same Love, announced the Free Palestine tour shortly after being dropped from Sheeran’s lineup. He dedicated his entire net earnings from the Sheeran tour to groups assisting Palestinians. The next scheduled concert under the Free Palestine banner is set for October 29 at the Accor Arena in Paris. The European leg concludes on October 30 at the OVO Arena Wembley in London. The artist, aged 43, continues to draw large crowds despite the political nature of his recent activities. His statements have sparked debate among musicians and activists regarding the role of art in political discourse. The tour aims to mobilize audiences through what Macklemore described as the frequency of love.