Macklemore's latest controversy, explained - USA Today
Macklemore is back in the news after his being dropped from Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour sparked artist withdrawals, competing donation pledges and a broader debate over the rapper's vocal support for Palestinians.
The Grammy-winning rapper, whose real name is Ben Haggerty, has built a career that extends beyond music, whether it's advocating for marriage equality, weighing in on political issues or responding to criticism. His 2012 song "Same Love" became an anthem for the same-sex marriage movement, while his 2024 song "Hind's Hall" was written in support of pro-Palestinian student protesters.
Here's what to know about Macklemore's career and controversies.
Macklemore's recent comments about the Israel-Gaza war have drawn criticism from some Jewish and pro-Israel advocacy groups, including the Israeli American Council, which accused him of promoting a one-sided political message.
During a Sept. 4 performance at MetLife Stadium, Macklemore said he wanted to use the tour to make the words "Free Palestine" loud and clear. He described his message as one focused on peace, dignity and equality, and said people in Gaza and the occupied West Bank should know they had not been forgotten.
His remarks prompted calls from some critics for his removal from Ed Sheeran's tour. Robert Kraft, whose Gillette Stadium was among the venues objecting to Macklemore's participation, said the rapper's comments and actions contributed to the decision, and criticized him for not addressing Hamas' actions.
The dispute escalated after Macklemore's removal. Finneas O'Connell, Aaron Rowe, Lukas Graham and Irish band Beoga later withdrew from Sheeran's tour in solidarity with Macklemore and Palestinians. Ms. Rachel, whose real name is Rachel Accurso, also criticized Sheeran's handling of the controversy and announced that she would match Macklemore's $1 million pledge to organizations supporting Palestinians.
The current backlash is not the first time Macklemore has faced criticism.
In 2014, the rapper appeared at a Seattle performance wearing a wig, black beard and large prosthetic nose. Critics said the costume resembled an antisemitic caricature and accused him of perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Macklemore said the outfit was intended as a disguise and that portraying a Jewish stereotype had never crossed his mind. While maintaining that there was no malicious intent, he acknowledged that the costume could be viewed as offensive and apologized to those who were hurt by it.
The Anti-Defamation League accepted his apology. Others, including comedian Seth Rogen, rejected his explanation and continued to criticize the costume.
Long before his recent advocacy for Palestinians, Macklemore earned national attention for using his music to address social issues.
His 2012 hit "Same Love," recorded with Ryan Lewis, became closely associated with the marriage-equality movement. The song challenged opposition to same-sex marriage and helped establish Macklemore as an artist willing to tackle political and cultural debates through his music.
The duo famously performed "Same Love" during the 2014 Grammy Awards, when dozens of couples were married as part of the ceremony.
For supporters, the song remains an example of Macklemore using his platform to advocate for marginalized groups. For critics, it marked the beginning of a career increasingly intertwined with activism and political commentary.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com, or on X @athompsonUSAT.
