On Saturday, Ed Sheeran started his solo concert in Philadelphia with remarks on Gaza, calling the situation there “catastrophic and unjustifiable.” Expressing a desire for his music and performances to focus on unity and humanity, Sheeran addressed recent controversies. These arose after his supporting acts withdrew in solidarity with Macklemore, who was removed from the tour for making pro-Palestinian remarks at a concert.
Sheeran told the audience at Lincoln Financial Field, “The events in Israel and at the Nova Music Festival on October 7th were horrific. The situation in Gaza is catastrophic, unjustifiable, and disproportionate.” He expressed heartbreak over the extensive devastation and loss of civilian, including children’s, lives. He also highlighted systemic injustices in the West Bank.
“I am already speaking to people across the spectrum to work out how to make a contribution that helps victims of these terrible times, and listening, and learning,” Sheeran stated.
The controversy unfolded after Macklemore shouted “Free Palestine” during a September 5 show in New Jersey. His removal from the tour came after New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, whose company owns Gillette Stadium, intervened. Sheeran clarified he was not responsible for the decision. Following Sheeran’s statement, supporting acts withdrew in support of Macklemore.
Macklemore announced a $1 million donation to Palestinian relief efforts, urging Kraft to match it. Kraft and Sheeran agreed to donate $2 million each, though they have not disclosed the beneficiaries. While Sheeran’s team has not commented, his Loop Tour was noted by Pollstar as the world’s top-grossing with an average revenue of over $7 million per city.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations in Philadelphia addressed an open letter to several parties, questioning Macklemore’s removal and its implications for free speech. Police planned to deploy officers to monitor any protests during the concert.
Small groups of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the concert venue, calling for Sheeran to support Palestinian people. Some fans adjusted their plans because of expected demonstrations, opting for early arrival or public transport.
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel assured measures to facilitate both protest and concert attendance, saying, “We’ll give people the opportunity to express their First Amendment right as long as they don’t engage in illegal and inappropriate behavior.” There’s confidence that both protesters and concert-goers will be accommodated.