Macklemore caused quite a stir with his remarks during a benefit concert in Seattle, saying, “F*** America.”
This weekend, Macklemore performed in his hometown of Seattle at the Palestine Will Live Forever Festival, which aimed to support various Palestinian aid organizations. His audacious statement, “F*** America,” received mixed reactions, with some applauding him on-site but sparking controversy online.
Following the backlash, several Seattle sports franchises stated they would evaluate the situation. In addition, Macklemore was removed from the lineup of the upcoming Neon City Festival in Las Vegas. However, the rapper remained silent until he recently addressed the controversy on Instagram.
According to Billboard, Macklemore posted a heartfelt series of paragraphs. He apologized for his harsh delivery but didn’t back down from his stance. “My thoughts and feelings are not always expressed perfectly or politely. Sometimes I slip up and get caught in the moment. Saturday night was one of those times,” he admitted.
Macklemore expressed his discontent with the government’s actions regarding the Middle East conflict. He wrote, “I have been in utter disbelief with how our government is showing up at this moment in history. I don’t think I’m alone. Some days I don’t know how to love something that is hurting others so much. I don’t think I’m alone.”
He concluded with a firm statement, “I’ve lost endorsements, I’ve lost shows, I’ve lost business ties. I am still here, unwavering in my support for a Free Palestine. I care about humanity and this earth too much to turn back now.”
Macklemore’s bold message may have cost him opportunities, but his commitment to his beliefs remains strong. Only time will tell how his outspoken stance will impact his career and broader public opinion.