,Macklemore concludes ‘Free Palestine Tour’ in London, says staying silent was ‘more painful

LONDON — US rapper Macklemore ended his three-date Free Palestine Tour at London’s OVO Arena Wembley on Friday night before a sold-out crowd of more than 12,500 people. “I don’t believe that staying silent is brave,” he told the audience, adding that silence had been more painful for him than speaking out.

The tour was organised after Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour in September following his onstage pro-Palestinian remarks at concerts in New Jersey, where he chanted “Free Palestine” and performed “Hind’s Hall.” Sheeran said the removal was the promoter’s decision, while the promoter said several venues had objected to Macklemore remaining on the bill.

The sold-out London finale featured Greta Thunberg, Paloma Faith, Aja Monet, Cure for Paranoia, Dana Salah, Nemahsis, Lucas Jones and Vic Mensa, while Mark Ruffalo, Susan Sarandon, Javier Bardem, Cynthia Nixon and Julian Casablancas appeared remotely.

According to Macklemore’s team, all proceeds from the Dublin, Paris and London concerts will go to 12 organisations supporting Palestinians through humanitarian relief, medical care, education, advocacy, policy change and community initiatives