Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour Loses All Opening Acts After Macklemore Exit

Ed Sheeran’s Loop tour has lost all of its announced opening acts after several artists withdrew following Macklemore’s removal from upcoming shows.

Irish singer-songwriter Aaron Rowe became the first artist to announce his departure on Tuesday. He said he did not make the decision lightly.

Rowe cited his Irish background and his views on conflict, occupation and humanitarian issues as factors behind his decision.

More Artists Leave the Tour

Finneas, Irish folk group Beoga and Danish band Lukas Graham later confirmed their departures.

Finneas said artists should be able to speak about oppressed people without being silenced. Beoga also expressed support for Macklemore.

Meanwhile, Lukas Graham said artists should have the freedom to speak about war, civilian deaths and human suffering.

The departures leave Sheeran’s remaining shows without announced opening acts.

Macklemore Removed From Tour Dates

The developments followed Macklemore’s removal from several Loop tour dates.

The rapper made “Free Palestine” remarks during performances at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on September 4 and 5.

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Macklemore later said Sheeran told him billionaire businessman Robert Kraft had become involved in efforts to prevent him from performing at other venues.

Kraft, who owns the New England Patriots, confirmed that he was involved in the decision concerning Macklemore’s appearance at Gillette Stadium.

Sheeran Says Decision Was Not His

Sheeran has said Macklemore’s removal was not his decision.

The British singer explained that promoters and venues made the final decision over the rapper’s participation.

According to Sheeran’s tour information, Rowe and Lukas Graham had been scheduled to support him during the remaining North American dates. Finneas had been scheduled for the South American shows.

Loop Tour Continues

The Loop tour is scheduled to continue in Philadelphia on September 19.

However, the remaining dates currently have no announced opening acts following the four withdrawals.

The episode has also brought renewed attention to how artists’ public statements on international conflicts can affect concert bookings and touring arrangements.