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Roger Waters Criticizes Ed Sheeran Following Macklemore’s Removal from Tour
Roger Waters, co-founder of the iconic rock band Pink Floyd, has spoken out strongly about the recent controversy involving Ed Sheeran and Macklemore. The 83-year-old musician, known for his outspoken support of Palestine, took to social media to express his disapproval of Sheeran’s decision to part ways with Macklemore after the rapper’s pro-Palestinian comments.
Waters directed a sharp message at Sheeran, asking “Ed Who?” and labeling him a “little p—-” in a video set to the historic protest anthem We Shall Overcome. In the clip, Waters contrasted two types of people: those who “do the right thing,” like Macklemore, and those who “do the wrong thing,” a group he implied Sheeran belongs to.
The dispute arose after Macklemore used his platform during Sheeran’s Loop Tour performances in New Jersey to voice support for Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. Following venue pushback and concerns that Macklemore’s presence could jeopardize scheduled concerts, the tour promoter announced that Macklemore would no longer appear on the remaining U.S. dates.
The decision triggered a ripple effect, with all four of Sheeran’s supporting acts-including Finneas, Lukas Graham, Aaron Rowe, and the Irish folk band Beoga-along with Sheeran’s live band, withdrawing from the tour in solidarity. Finneas emphasized the importance of artists speaking out for the oppressed when he announced his departure.
Ed Sheeran addressed the situation on Instagram, explaining that venue concerns about Macklemore’s comments led to the removal. He clarified that the choice was made by the tour promoter and not by him personally, emphasizing his own private views on the conflict and his intention to keep his concerts free from political debate.
“I respect Macklemore’s strength of purpose to stand up and shout for what he believes,” Sheeran said, “but there is room for multiple approaches to the same end: peace.”
The controversy has sparked intense reactions across the music community and among fans, with debates continuing over freedom of expression, political activism, and the role of artists in addressing global issues.