Irish acts and Finneas quit Ed Sheeran tour over Macklemore’s ouster

Three supporting acts have stepped away from Ed Sheeran’s tour in the days after Macklemore was removed over his pro-Palestinian statements. Irish acts Aaron Rowe and Beoga and Grammy Award winner Finneas announced on Instagram on Tuesday that they are no longer part of the tour.

“We are Irish people who understand colonialism. As founding members of the Irish Artists for Palestine movement, we are committed activists for justice and will continue to be,” Beoga said on Instagram, referencing Ireland’s history.

Rowe, who credited Sheeran for changing his life, said, “But as Irish people we know all too well about genocide, forced famine and violent occupation,” adding that he can’t “stand by and allow billionaires to use their position of power to silence the rightful voices of those who speak up.”

Finneas, Billie Eilish’s brother, had been set to join Sheeran later this year during the tour’s South American shows.

“Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed. I stand with Palestine and its people.”

Macklemore said in an Instagram post that Sheeran removed him from the tour’s North American leg after New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft organized a group of stadium owners, telling Sheeran that he would not be allowed to perform at the venues if Macklemore remained on the bill.

Macklemore had drawn attention during his opening set at a recent show, telling the crowd “Free Palestine.”

Sheeran addressed the backlash on Tuesday on Instagram, writing, “Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision; it was not mine.”

“I would never let down the fans who had made plans, nor would I abandon the touring crew and the other support acts and musicians who rely on me for work and to make a living,” Sheeran said.