Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour has been in the headlines recently after US rapper Macklemore performed as an opening act for the singer.
During his act, the rapper performed his protest song Hind's Hall and expressed his support for a "Free Palestine". The performance ended up dividing audiences, as while many expressed their support for the singer's statements, others, including the singer Pink, called for his removal from the tour.
In part of her statement addressing the controversy, the So What singer posted: " Last Sunday I reposted somebody else's post about Macklemore's set at Ed Sheeran's show. It said things in words I didn't write, and I wouldn't have chosen all of them. Then the comments came, and I did what I do when I'm hurt, which is post snarky memes and act like I'm fine. That's on me.
"A repost isn't a statement, and a meme isn't a spine. Social media makes all of us cheap and fast, and we all know it. But I'd rather be disagreed with for what I actually said than hated for what anybody else wrote, so let me say it."
On Monday, Macklemore confirmed that he had been dropped from the tour, claiming that Robert Kraft, the owner of Gillette Stadium had threatened to stop Ed performing at the venue unless Macklemore was dropped.
"Ed was in a [expletive] up position," the rapper posted. "He knew it. His typical apolitical stance was being challenged in a way it never had been before."
© Getty ImagesIn part of his statament, Macklemore commented: "But before I get into it, I want to say something that should be obvious. In this moment I think it matters. I am not a victim. Ed Sheeran is not a victim. Pink is not a victim. We have careers, money, opportunities, safety and audiences around the world. Whatever consequences any of us face for what we say, we get to go home to our families."
Ed has also said: "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."
Many of Ed's support acts have expressed their solidarity with Macklemore, and the remaining stars have confirmed that they are dropping out of appearing with the Shape of You hitmaker.
Aaron Rowe, Lukas Graham, Finneas and Ed's live band, Beoga, issued separate statements confirming their decision.
Statements from the acts
Aaron, who rose to fame last year with hits like Talking with You and Lose Lose, said: "I have made the decision to withdraw as a support act for Ed Sheeran's 'The Loop' North American Tour.
"I don't take the decision lightly. Ed has been a friend to me and has changed my life, I could never thank him enough for this. But as Irish people we know all too well about genocide, forced famine and violent occupation."
© WireImageHe continued: "I cannot stand by and allow billionaires to use their position of power to silence the rightful voices of those who speak up against Israeli genocide and who highlight the savage murder of children. I would lose all respect for myself to carry on as normal.
"I need to be true to myself and my ancestors who resisted colonisation, and fought for a freedom that I enjoy today in Ireland. Free Palestine."
© Getty Images for Tribeca Film FeMeanwhile, part of Beoga's statement read: "We have made the decision to depart as Ed Sheeran's band on the remaining US Loop tour, following the silencing of Macklemore by Zionist lobbies.
"We are a traditional Irish band who never saw ourselves playing in stadiums of that size and that opportunity is not lost on us. We have been friends with Ed for over 10 years now and will continue to be. We believe in dialogue as a means of progressing the plight of the Palestinian people."
© Variety via Getty ImagesFinneas, who is the brother of Billie Eilish, stated: "Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed. I have decided to withdraw from my upcoming tour dates with Ed Sheeran. I stand with Palestine and its people."
And Danish band Lukas Graham, who are known for their smash hit 7 Years, commented: "It's hard to watch families in other parts of the world burying the people they love.
© Getty Images for Project Healthy"We should be able to speak about war, about civilians being killed, about children who deserve to grow up. Wherever they live. Whatever flag flies over them. I grew up in Christiania, a small community in Denmark where speaking your mind was part of everyday life. Having more money didn't make your opinion worth more than anyone else's."
The group continued: "Money doesn't give you the right to own the conversation. Nobody's bank balance should decide who gets to speak or which suffering we're allowed to acknowledge.
"I love Ed and I'm grateful for everything we've shared. That hasn't changed. But I can't put these words out into the world and carry on with this tour as things stand. We're withdrawing from the remaining dates. I'm sorry we won't be there. This is a difficult decision, but it's one I need to stand by."
