Macklemore Launches Sold-Out 'Free Palestine' Tour in Dublin with Hozier, Kneecap, and Celebrity Support

Key points

• The concert took place at Dublin’s 3Arena, drawing a crowd of approximately 13,000 people.
• Macklemore announced that all tour proceeds would go to organizations including Medical Aid for Palestinians and the UNRWA USA National Committee.
• Hozier performed 'Swan Upon Leda' for the first time in three years and highlighted visa issues for 55 Gaza students in Ireland.
• Kneecap thanked Ed Sheeran for helping organize the concert, despite his earlier removal of Macklemore from the Loop Tour.
• The tour continues in Paris on October 29 and London on October 30.

Background

Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour in September 2026 after making pro-Palestinian remarks and calling for a 'free Palestine' at a New Jersey concert. This followed the 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in over 74,000 Palestinian deaths according to the Associated Press. Macklemore had previously pledged $1 million in tour earnings to aid organizations and performed at Red Rocks in October 2026 before launching this European tour.

How outlets are covering it

Rolling Stone and BBC emphasize the solidarity among Irish artists like Hozier and Kneecap, noting Kneecap’s thanks to Sheeran for organizing the event. Yahoo highlights the celebrity support, detailing video messages from Mark Ruffalo, Julian Casablancas, Ilana Glazer, Cynthia Nixon, and Natasha Rothwell. NBC News focuses on the massive turnout and the deep-rooted pro-Palestinian support in Ireland, while BBC notes the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal, with Sheeran attributing the decision to his promoter, Messina Touring Group, rather than himself. All sources agree on the tour’s sold-out status and the charitable nature of the proceeds.

Why it matters

The tour highlights the intersection of music, activism, and humanitarian aid, demonstrating how artists use their platforms to advocate for political causes. It also underscores the ongoing debate over artist expression and venue censorship, as Macklemore’s removal from Sheeran’s tour sparked widespread discussion about the role of promoters and venue owners in silencing political speech. The event serves as a platform for raising awareness and funds for Palestinian humanitarian organizations, reflecting broader global solidarity movements.

What to watch

Macklemore will perform in Paris on October 29 and London on October 30, continuing the 'Free Palestine' tour. The tour’s success and the continued support from artists and celebrities may influence future discussions on artist activism and political expression in the music industry. Additionally, the proceeds from the tour will directly support organizations aiding Palestinians, potentially impacting humanitarian efforts in the region.