By our reporter 17.9.2026
Classic Hits Radio a station in Ireland said it would not play any music made by Ed Sheeran, following the dropping of US rapper Macklemore from his Loop Tour of the USA.
Macklemore was removed from the tour after Sheeran bowed to pressure from Jewish groups to kick out the rapper because of his pro-Palestine views. Following the US rapper’s exit, all other artists scheduled to appear on the tour decided to also drop out in solidarity with Macklemore.
Irish singer Aaron Rowe, Finneas, who is Billie Eilish’s brother, and Danish singer Lukas Graham, as well as Sheeran’s backing band Beoga, all dropped out, sharing messages of support to Macklemore as they announced their withdrawal.
“Our decision to remove Ed Sheeran’s music from the Classic Hits Radio playlist has been carefully considered,” said Dave Kelly, group programme director at Bay Broadcasting,
“It is not intended as a personal judgment on Ed Sheeran, and we acknowledge his own explanation of the circumstances surrounding recent events.
“As an independent Irish-owned radio station, however, we believe it is important to listen to our audience and to stand alongside Irish artists who have made what is undoubtedly a significant professional decision based on their own convictions.
“Ultimately, our position is a simple one. We believe in peace, humanity and respect, and in the right of people and artists to express and act upon their sincerely held views.
“In light of the strength of feeling expressed by our listeners and the decisions taken by Irish artists involved in the tour, we believe removing Ed Sheeran’s music from our playlist is the appropriate decision for Classic Hits Radio at this time.”
Ed Sheeran...