Before taking the stage in Philadelphia on Saturday night, Ed Sheeran addressed the controversy that has surrounded his tour in recent days. The singer spoke about the fallout after Macklemore was removed as an opening act over “free Palestine” comments, and after other opening acts withdrew from the tour.
Sheeran began by acknowledging that opening a show with a speech is unusual for him, but said he felt compelled to speak about the past week. He noted that he is accustomed to his music being criticized and is happy to accept that, but said this week’s criticism concerned something far more important. He admitted to making difficult decisions and mistakes, and apologized for disappointing fans.
He explained that he never wanted to be an activist musician, but found himself in the middle of an important and passionate argument about freedom of speech and what he called the most complex political issue on the planet.
Concerns About Venue Pre-Approval of Performer Content
Sheeran emphasized that his concerts have always been a safe space for everyone, and that honoring his commitment to fans is central to who he is. That commitment, he said, is why he performed alone in Philadelphia and continued his current tour.
He then raised a broader concern: the idea of venues pre-approving the content of performers. While he acknowledged that this happens in many places around the world, he stated it should never happen in the free world.
Sheeran's Position on Israel and Palestine
Sheeran also addressed where he stands on the situation in Israel and Palestine, and whether his concert implied a political stance. He said he has tried throughout his career not to be a political commentator because he wants his music and shows to be about unity rather than division, and about humanity rather than politics.
However, he described the issue as a humanitarian one and said he could no longer hide how he feels. He called what happened in Israel at a music festival on Oct. 7 horrific and said it compounded centuries of Jewish pain. He described what is happening in Gaza as catastrophic, unjustifiable, and disproportionate.
Sheeran said his heart has been broken by the scale of devastation and the loss of civilian lives, including children’s lives, and that the systemic justice unfolding in the West Bank cannot be overlooked.
Commitment to Learning and Contributing
Sheeran stated that he is already speaking to people across the spectrum to determine how to make a contribution that helps victims of these terrible times. He added that he is listening and learning because he does not know enough.
