Macklemore gave his first performance since being removed from the support program for Ed Sheeran’s US tour over pro-Palestinian statements. At a concert in Colorado, he said that showing compassion for people suffering was not political and again expressed support for Palestine. He also spoke about conflicts and humanitarian situations in Sudan, Congo, Lebanon and Haiti, and about people in the United States who fear leaving their homes because of actions by immigration authorities.

Macklemore had initially been scheduled to perform at ten Sheeran concerts, but that was reduced to two after his remarks at a September 4 concert in New Jersey. He said Sheeran had been pressured by stadium owners to remove him, and Sheeran’s US concert organizer later confirmed that venues would not allow Macklemore to perform because of his statements. Macklemore has since announced a sold-out series of concerts in Dublin, Paris and London under the name “Free Palestine”, with proceeds going to organizations assisting Palestinians.