Macklemore's long history of controversy from Grammy wins to 'Free Palestine' concert remarks
Macklemore's activism began long before his pro-Palestinian plight during Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour.The musician, who's full name is Ben Haggerty, was kicked off Sheeran's tour following backlash from his "Free Palestine" messaging during his opening act at MetLife Stadium over the weekend.While the fallout continues now that four supporting acts have withdrawn from the tour, Macklemore, 43, is no stranger to controversy and has often used his platform to amplify political issues.ED SHEERAN SAYS HE TRIED TO 'BUILD A BRIDGE' OVER MACKLEMORE TOUR SPOT BEFORE VENUES SAID NOMacklemore has a long history with using his public platform to amplify activism.(Arnaud Finistre)The artist broke into the mainstream music scene in 2012 with the release of "The Heist," his debut studio album as the duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis.He faced criticism for sweeping the 2014 Grammys with four awards, which included winning the Best Rap Album Grammy over fan favorite Kendrick Lamar, who was equally nominated for seven awards that night.MACKLEMORE DOUBLES DOWN AFTER GETTING KICKED OFF ED SHEERAN TOUR AFTER PRO-PALESTINE STANCEMacklemore reached out to Lamar after the show and shared a screenshot of his text on social media where he told the "Humble" rapper that he was "robbed" of the win."My text to Kendrick after the show.
He deserved best rap album...I'm honored and completely blown away to win anything much less 4 Grammys," Macklemore wrote.
"But in that category, he should have won IMO.And that's taking nothing away from The Heist.
Just giving GKMC it's proper respect."More than 30 couples married during a Macklemore & Ryan Lewis performance of "Same Love" at the 2014 Grammy Awards.(Robert Gauthier)Macklemore & Ryan Lewis sang with Madonna at the 2014 Grammy Awards where Queen Latifah presided over dozens of same-sex and heterosexual weddings during the performance.
(Cliff Lipson)He added, "With that being said, thank you to the fans.You're the reason we were on that stage ...