Macklemore Launches Palestine Benefit Concert Series In Dublin

US rapper Macklemore has launched a series of benefit concerts for Palestinians, opening with a sold-out show in Dublin featuring Irish singer Hozier, rap group Kneecap and several other performers.

The concert took place at the 3Arena on Monday, October 26, with appearances from Irish folk band Beoga, singer-songwriter Lina Makoul, Dead Prez member M1 and DJ Habibeats.

Actor Liam Cunningham, activist and psychotherapist Nadia Greenspan, and artist and organiser Samir Eskanda also addressed the audience. Actors Mark Ruffalo, Cynthia Nixon, Ilana Glazer and Natasha Rothwell, alongside The Strokes frontman Julian Casablancas, contributed through remote appearances.

Organisers said proceeds from the three-city concert series would support groups providing humanitarian assistance, medical services, education and advocacy for Palestinians. Beneficiaries announced by Live Nation include Anera, Medical Aid for Palestinians, the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, Jewish Voice for Peace and UNRWA USA.

The concerts follow controversy surrounding Macklemore’s departure from the North American leg of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour in September. During a performance at MetLife Stadium, the rapper expressed support for Palestinians and called for their freedom.

Macklemore later alleged that New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft had pushed for his removal. Kraft confirmed that he had barred the rapper from Gillette Stadium, citing Macklemore’s remarks and what he described as a wider history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery.

Sheeran, meanwhile, said the decision to remove Macklemore from the tour was made by the promoter rather than by him.

The Dublin performance marks the start of Macklemore’s three-city fundraising effort, which centres on raising support for Palestinians through music and public advocacy.