Macklemore Dropped from Las Vegas Festival Following Seattle Controversy

On Saturday, rap star Macklemore made headlines for his controversial remarks during a pro-Palestine benefit concert in Seattle, where he reportedly called out, “(Expletive) America!”. The performance was part of the “Palestine Will Live Forever” festival, which aimed to support the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees.

According to audience videos and social media posts, the rapper’s comments came during a performance of his song, “Hind’s Hall 2”, at Seattle’s Seward Park Amphitheater. Macklemore, known for his outspoken support of Palestinian causes, criticized U.S. policy regarding Israel’s conflict with Hamas. The crowd at the event responded with cheers, leading to further controversy.

By Tuesday, Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, was removed from the lineup of the Neon City Festival, a first-ever event in downtown Las Vegas. The festival organizers cited “unforeseen circumstances” but did not specifically link their decision to the rapper’s recent comments. The festival, scheduled for Nov. 22-24, was designed to coincide with the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, aiming to boost local business.

The Neon City Festival had announced Macklemore as one of its five primary headliners. The festival’s lineup still includes Alison Wonderland, Neon Trees, Russell Dickerson, and Seven Lions. As of now, no replacement has been named for Macklemore’s spot.

In a statement released on Sept. 25, Macklemore addressed the situation, acknowledging that his words were not “always expressed perfectly or politely,” yet reaffirmed his stance on U.S. policy in the Middle East, stating, “I am still here, unwavering in my support for a Free Palestine.” The rapper admitted losing endorsements and business partnerships as a result.

Macklemore has been a vocal supporter of Palestinians during the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Earlier in May, he released the protest song “Hind’s Hall” in solidarity with student protesters, with proceeds benefiting Palestinian refugees.