Macklemore has received a new concert offer after his removal from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour following his public pro-Palestinian remarks.
The American rapper was dropped from the tour after controversy surrounding his comments during a September performance in New Jersey.
Now, Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud has invited Macklemore to perform a free concert in the Michigan city.
Dearborn Mayor Invites Macklemore
Hammoud publicly welcomed Macklemore after reports emerged that he would no longer perform alongside Sheeran.
The mayor said Macklemore would always be welcome in Dearborn.
He offered to organize a free concert sponsored by the city.
Hammoud also said he wanted to help make the event one of Macklemore’s best performances.
The mayor expressed support for Macklemore’s advocacy for Palestinians and called for the event to move forward.
Macklemore Explains Why He Left the Tour
Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, later explained his removal from the Loop Tour in a lengthy Instagram post.
He said the decision followed pressure connected to major US venues.
The rapper claimed that the owner of Gillette Stadium wanted Ed Sheeran’s team to remove him from the tour.
The controversy began after Macklemore performed at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
During the September 4 performance, he repeatedly expressed support for Palestine.
He also performed his protest song “Hind’s Hall,” which focuses on the war in Gaza and Palestinian suffering.
Robert Kraft Confirms Venue Concerns
Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, confirmed that Macklemore’s recent remarks were a factor in the decision.
Kraft said the stadium has a commitment to maintaining a welcoming environment for visitors.
He said the venue does not want events to provide a platform for hate speech.
Kraft described some of Macklemore’s recent comments and stage material as offensive and hurtful to members of the Jewish community.
However, Kraft also said he was willing to meet with Macklemore and discuss the issue.
He said the ultimate goal should be peace, an end to suffering and an end to hatred.
The new invitation from Dearborn gives Macklemore another potential platform to perform after his controversial exit from Sheeran’s tour.
