Dropkick Murphys’ Ken Casey Criticizes Ed Sheeran Over His Treatment of Macklemore: ‘Doesn’t Sit Right’

Dropkick Murphys frontman Ken Casey has criticized Ed Sheeran for the way he handled the departure of Macklemore from his Loop Tour. During an interview with Boston Public Radio, Casey expressed his disapproval of Sheeran's actions, stating that it doesn't sit right with him. The controversy arose when Macklemore was removed from the stadium tour after making comments supporting Palestinians and criticizing Israel's war in Gaza.

Casey emphasized the importance of artists standing by their beliefs and not allowing external pressures to sway their stance. He shared an anecdote about how Dropkick Murphys had made statements against the Trump administration at a festival and faced backlash from the site owner, but they remained true to their convictions. Casey also pointed out that promoters should not have the authority to dictate what artists say onstage.

Following Macklemore's removal, several other opening acts followed suit, leading to Sheeran's decision to donate his earnings from the tour to humanitarian organizations supporting Palestinians and challenging Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft to match the donation.