U2 Defends Macklemore as Sheeran Tour Fallout Deepens
The Edge and Larry Mullen Jr. argue that wealthy promoters should not dictate what musicians say on stage.
By Adrian Kovalenko ·
U2 members The Edge and Larry Mullen Jr. defended Macklemore on a BBC News interview, responding to a dispute sparked by the rapper’s political statements during Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour.
The controversy began in September 2026, when Macklemore performed in New Jersey and voiced support for Palestine. He sang his protest song "Hind's Hall" during the set. Several supporting acts withdrew from the tour shortly after, citing solidarity with Macklemore.
Mullen took a direct stance against what he described as censorship by the concert industry. He argued that wealthy individuals, promoters, and venue owners should not control the content of a musician's performance. Mullen set a specific boundary for this freedom, stating that artists are free to speak as long as their statements do not encourage violence.
The Edge offered a more nuanced view of the situation. He defended Sheeran by acknowledging the difficult position the singer faced. The Edge suggested that the responsibility for the controversy should not fall solely on the headlining artist. He pointed to the decisions made by concert promoters and venue operators as factors that complicated the situation for Sheeran.
The U2 members emphasized the importance of artistic freedom in their comments. They asserted that performers have the right to express political opinions without facing professional penalty. Their statements aimed to clarify the dynamic between the artist and the commercial entities that book and promote major tours.
The dispute has drawn attention to the balance between political activism and business interests in the live music industry. It highlights the tension between the creative freedom of performers and the operational control held by promoters and venue owners.
