U2 members The Edge and Larry Mullen Jr. have spoken out in support of Macklemore following a controversy involving Ed Sheeran’s U.S. tour and the rapper’s public statements about Palestine.
During a BBC News interview, the musicians addressed the situation, emphasizing the importance of artistic freedom and the right of performers to express political opinions.
The Edge also defended Sheeran, acknowledging the difficult position the singer faced amid decisions involving concert promoters and venue operators. His comments suggested that responsibility for the controversy should not fall solely on the artist.
Mullen took a firmer stance against censorship, arguing that wealthy individuals, promoters, and venue owners should not control what musicians can say onstage, provided their statements do not encourage violence.
The dispute followed Macklemore’s performances in New Jersey in September 2026, where he expressed support for Palestine and performed his protest song Hind’s Hall.
Several supporting acts subsequently withdrew from the tour in solidarity with Macklemore.
The situation has brought renewed attention to the relationship between artistic expression, political activism, and the business interests surrounding major concert tours.