Ed Sheeran Resumes U.S. Tour Amid Fallout Over Macklemore’s Removal

British singer Ed Sheeran is set to resume his U.S. tour in Philadelphia on Saturday, September 19, following a week of controversy surrounding the removal of rapper Macklemore from the tour lineup. Sheeran is scheduled to perform at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, marking his first concert since the dispute erupted. His official tour schedule confirms the September 19 performance. The controversy began after Macklemore made pro-Palestinian remarks during a September concert, including saying “Free Palestine.” He was subsequently removed from Sheeran's tour. Sheeran later said the decision was not his, attributing it to pressure involving tour organisers and venue owners. The decision triggered a series of withdrawals from artists associated with Sheeran's tour. Lukas Graham, Aaron Rowe, Finneas and members of Sheeran's supporting band Beoga pulled out in solidarity with Macklemore. Sheeran has said he wants his concerts to remain focused on music rather than politics. Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian groups have announced plans to protest outside Saturday's Philadelphia concert. The situation has also generated a wider debate over free expression, artists' political statements and the influence of private venue owners and promoters over performers. According to the Associated Press, Sheeran may perform without the supporting acts that originally accompanied him. Tickets were still available ahead of Saturday's show. Source: CNN, with additional reporting from AP and Reuters.