Macklemore’s newly announced “Free Palestine Tour” has sold out within hours, with all three announced European shows in Dublin, Paris and London quickly reaching capacity.
The rapper announced the sell-out on Wednesday, September 30, shortly after tickets went on general sale. Macklemore said he was “blown away” by the response, adding that the shows were put together quickly with the intention of using music to raise funds and bring artists and audiences together in support of Palestinians.
The three-date run will begin at 3Arena in Dublin on October 26, followed by Accor Arena in Paris on October 29 and OVO Arena Wembley in London on October 30. The concerts are being billed as “Macklemore and Friends,” although the additional artists have not yet been announced.
Macklemore announced the tour shortly after being removed from the remaining U.S. dates of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour following his public comments in support of Palestinians during his performances. The circumstances surrounding his removal have drawn differing statements from those involved, with Macklemore and other parties offering their accounts of what led to the decision.
For the new tour, Macklemore has said that all proceeds will benefit organisations supporting Palestinians. The announced European shows are currently the first dates of the tour, with U.S. dates expected to be announced separately.
The demand was particularly evident in Dublin, where reports from fans indicated that the 3Arena show sold out within roughly five minutes of tickets becoming available.
Macklemore has also teased that the artists joining him for the shows will be revealed soon. The rapper said he had reached out to musicians who have publicly supported Palestinians and are willing to use their platforms to address the issue.
The sold-out announcement comes as Macklemore continues to draw attention for his outspoken position on the Israel-Palestine conflict. His new tour places that advocacy directly at the centre of a live music event, while also directing proceeds toward humanitarian organisations supporting Palestinians.
