Brief

Macklemore Calls for Free Palestine at Red Rocks After Ed Sheeran Tour Exit

The rapper used his first post‑tour performance to repeat pro‑Palestinian messages and criticize ICE policies.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 25 Oct 2026 13:34:52 GMT

During a 17‑song set at Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre on Oct. 22, rapper Macklemore stopped the concert to demand a “free Palestine” and to speak out on other global crises, Billboard reported.

What happened

After opening the show with his usual material, Macklemore paused midway and addressed the audience, saying, “It is not political. It is human to have a heart, to watch others suffering and to say, ‘Not anymore!’ So I say, free Palestine. I say, free Sudan. I say, free Congo, Lebanon, to Haiti, to all the people that are affected by ICE in America, who are afraid to leave their houses.” He concluded that “the message will always be love.” The remarks came during his first concert since being removed from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour in September.

What the reports add

Billboard notes that Macklemore’s earlier appearances at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey featured a similar call for Palestinian freedom and included his 2024 protest song “Hind’s Hall” with Gaza imagery. Those performances triggered criticism from the Israeli‑American Council and led to his removal from the remaining U.S. dates. Tour promoter Messina Touring Group said venues refused to host shows with Macklemore on the lineup, and Robert Kraft of the Kraft Group barred him from Gillette Stadium, citing offensive rhetoric toward the Jewish community. Ed Sheeran later clarified that the decision to drop Macklemore was made by the promoter and venues, not by him.

What was said

Billboard quoted Macklemore’s on‑stage statement verbatim. The outlet also reported Ed Sheeran’s comment that he “respect[s] Macklemore’s strength of purpose to stand up and shout for what he believes,” while emphasizing his own approach to “maintain diplomacy.”

How it came about

Macklemore’s removal from the Loop Tour followed his outspoken support for Palestinian rights at two MetLife Stadium shows, prompting backlash from several groups and venue cancellations. The controversy spurred a series of reactions, including the addition of new opening acts to Sheeran’s tour and Macklemore’s launch of a “Free Palestine” tour, which sold out quickly according to earlier Felo News coverage.

Key facts

Macklemore paused his Red Rocks concert on Oct. 22 to call for a free Palestine and other global causes. (billboard.com)
The remarks were his first public performance after being removed from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour in September. (billboard.com)
Billboard reported that venue promoters and Robert Kraft barred Macklemore from further U.S. dates due to his statements. (billboard.com)
Ed Sheeran said he respected Macklemore’s purpose but emphasized his own diplomatic approach. (billboard.com)