Bono Reveals Ed Sheeran's Resistance to Political Themes in U2's Ukraine Collaboration
Bono disclosed that Ed Sheeran expressed reluctance to engage with political themes during the creation of the song 'Yours Eternally,' which addresses the war in Ukraine. This revelation emerged amid ongoing controversy following the removal of rapper Macklemore from Sheeran's tour for pro-Palestinian statements. While Sheeran maintains a stance of neutrality to protect his audience, U2 members emphasize the importance of artistic freedom and political engagement.
Key points
- Bono stated that Sheeran told him, 'You're not going to get me into politics, are you?' during the recording of 'Yours Eternally.'
- The song 'Yours Eternally,' released on U2's 'Days of Ash' EP in February 2026, features Ukrainian musician Taras Topolia and is written from the perspective of a Ukrainian soldier.
- Macklemore was dropped from Sheeran's Loop Tour after stadium owners, including Robert Kraft, objected to his pro-Palestinian speeches at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
- Sheeran initially defended his neutrality on Instagram but later addressed the issue on stage, calling the situation a 'humanitarian issue' and apologizing for his mistakes.
- Macklemore launched the 'Free Palestine' tour, with proceeds benefiting 12 organizations supporting Palestinians, after being removed from Sheeran's tour.
Background
This controversy follows earlier incidents where Sheeran faced backlash for not supporting Macklemore, including a family rift with his cousin Jethro Sheeran, who accused him of cowardice. Sheeran had previously addressed politics at a concert in Philadelphia, emphasizing his desire not to be a political figure while maintaining a neutral stance.
How outlets are covering it
Variety and Rolling Stone UK highlight Bono's account of Sheeran's reluctance to engage with political themes, emphasizing the tension between artistic neutrality and political engagement. USA Today focuses on the broader controversy, including Macklemore's response and the financial implications of the tour fallout. All sources agree on the core facts but differ in emphasis, with Variety and Rolling Stone UK focusing on the collaboration and USA Today on the tour controversy.
Why it matters
This story highlights the ongoing debate about the role of artists in political discourse, particularly in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict. It also underscores the tension between artistic neutrality and the expectations of fans and the public for artists to take a stand on political issues.
What to watch
Macklemore's 'Free Palestine' tour is set to begin on October 26 in Dublin, with additional shows in Paris and London. All proceeds will be donated to organizations supporting Palestinians. U2 is also set to release their album 'Carnaval de Luz' on November 13.
- Ed Sheeran Told U2 He Didn’t Want to ‘Get Into Politics’ on Song About Ukraine’s War With Russia, Says Bono Variety
- Ed Sheeran told Bono he didn’t want to ‘get into politics’ on U2 collab ‘Yours Eternally’ Rolling Stone UK
- Bono says 'we shouldn't personalize' Ed Sheeran, Macklemore fallout usatoday.com
- U2’s Bono Exposes Ed Sheeran’s Fear of Getting ‘Political’ The Daily Beast
- Bono Says Ed Sheeran Didn’t Want to ‘Get Into Politics’ While Collaborating with U2 People.com
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