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Taylor Swift Producer Backs Macklemore in 'Free Palestine' Controversy

Taylor Swift Producer Backs Macklemore in 'Free Palestine' Controversy

Summary

Jack Antonoff publicly backed Macklemore after the rapper was removed from Ed Sheeran’s tour following pro-Palestinian statements at concerts. Antonoff criticized Sheeran for continuing the tour and said he would keep saying “Free Palestine” at his own shows, framing the dispute as a question of artists’ speech and the influence of promoters and venue owners.

Key Facts

  • Antonoff made the comments in an interview with The Guardian published Sunday.
  • Antonoff said he had used the phrase “Free Palestine” at Bleachers concerts and had faced abuse on social media for doing so.
  • Antonoff said Sheeran missed an opportunity to cancel the remaining shows and perform for free outside the venues while raising money.
  • Macklemore said “Free Palestine” while opening for Sheeran at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in early September and performed his protest song “Hind’s Hall.”
  • Pro-Israel groups, including the Israeli-American Council, called for Macklemore to be removed from the tour.
  • Robert Kraft, whose Kraft Group owns Gillette Stadium, said his opposition to Macklemore’s appearances was based on concerns about antisemitism.
  • Macklemore accused Kraft and other stadium owners of pressuring the tour over his appearances.
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