Brian Eno Calls Ed Sheeran “Weak” Over Macklemore’s Tour Removal

Brian Eno called Ed Sheeran “weak” over Macklemore’s removal from the “Loop Tour,” saying Sheeran should have stood by the acts he booked.

In an Associated Press interview conducted September 29 and published Tuesday, the producer put most blame on those who blocked the shows, while noting fans had tickets and had made travel plans.

“He should have made some kind of reaction,” Eno said.

The dispute began with Macklemore’s opening sets at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on September 4 and 5. He performed “Hind’s Hall,” displayed images from Gaza and urged the crowd to say “Free Palestine.” He also rejected claims that speaking against Israel meant he hated Jewish people.

The objections reached beyond social media. Messina Touring Group said venues would not host the concerts with Macklemore on the bill, putting the remaining American stadium shows at risk. The promoter removed him from his remaining support dates on September 14 after discussions with the parties involved.

Macklemore accused New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft of pressing other stadium owners to block him. Kraft confirmed barring him from Gillette Stadium and cited what he called a “history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery.” He said the decision did not deny the pain of Palestinians or their right to be heard.

Sheeran gave his account in his September 15 public statement. He said he had spent a week talking with venues, promoters and activists in search of an agreement, and that Macklemore’s contract was with the promoter.

“Macklemore coming off tour was the promoter’s decision, it was not mine,” Sheeran wrote. He also said fans and touring workers depended on the shows going ahead.

The split affected more than Macklemore’s slot. Finneas, Lukas Graham and Aaron Rowe withdrew from their dates, and Irish band Beoga pulled out of the performances it had been doing during Sheeran’s sets.

Before Eno’s interview, Sheeran had already addressed the backlash onstage in Philadelphia on September 19.

He said he feared what could happen if venues approved acts’ words in advance, and described the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic and unjustifiable and disproportionate.” He also acknowledged mistakes in his handling of the controversy.