Monday, September 21, 2026 - Billy Bragg has criticised Ed Sheeran’s handling of the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal from Sheeran’s Loop tour, saying he is “not impressed” by the singer’s response.
Bragg questioned Sheeran’s reported $2 million donation to humanitarian efforts in the Middle East, arguing that the move appeared to deflect attention from the criticism facing the singer.
The dispute intensified after Macklemore was removed from the tour following his public support for Palestinians and calls for a “Free Palestine” during performances.
Sheeran has said the decision was made by the tour promoter rather than himself, while several other support acts and Sheeran’s backing musicians subsequently withdrew from the remaining shows in solidarity with Macklemore.
Sheeran addressed the controversy during his return to the stage in Philadelphia, acknowledging that he had made mistakes and apologising to fans.
He also described the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic, unjustifiable, and disproportionate” and said he was listening and learning about how he could contribute to those affected.
The comments came as Bragg and other musicians continued to publicly question how Sheeran handled the fallout.
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