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Radio stations, protesters escalate backlash over Ed Sheeran tour changes

musicSep 17, 2026495,766

Classic Hits Radio, run by Bay Broadcasting, announced it will stop playing Ed Sheeran’s music for the foreseeable future after listener feedback over Sheeran removing Macklemore from his U.S. Loop Tour, Dave Kelly, group program director, told The Independent. The controversy began after Macklemore performed his pro-Palestine song "Hind’s Hall" and repeatedly called for "Free Palestine" at MetLife Stadium on September 4 and 5; Macklemore was later dropped as an opener. Macklemore says New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft pressured Sheeran, warning he would cancel Gillette Stadium dates and urging other stadium owners to do the same. Four other supporting acts subsequently withdrew from Sheeran’s U.S. run, including Irish acts Aaron Rowe and Beoga, plus Lukas Graham and Finneas. Pro-Palestine groups Philly Palestine Coalition and Shut Down D&Z shared a flyer calling for a protest outside Sheeran’s Philadelphia show on September 19 at Lincoln Financial Field. Classic Hits Radio framed its decision as standing with Irish artists who left the tour and listening to its audience while citing beliefs in peace, humanity and respect.

Ireland against Fascism
@irlagainstfascism.bsky.social

Starting to look like the artist-boycott of South Africa back in the 80s. Maybe it can grow equally big? Boycotting ALL artists who support IsraHell/ refuse to use their voice against genocide? It only takes one to start the ball rolling. www.thenational.scot/news/2655742...

460216h ago
tomwellborn3rd
@wellborn.net

A radio station dropping Ed Sheeran because listeners hated the Macklemore decision is one hell of a backlash loop. Macklemore donates $1 million, the openers walk, and suddenly everyone involved is explaining exactly where they stand on Palestinian lives.

4029h ago
3 sources