READ IT: Ed Sheeran's pre-concert speech to Philly crowd about the Gaza controversy
Ed Sheeran called the Gaza devastation "catastrophic and unjustifiable" in a rare political speech before his Philadelphia concert Saturday night.
TL;DR
- Ed Sheeran delivered a rare political speech before his Philadelphia concert.
- He addressed the controversy after Macklemore was dropped as an opening act for "free Palestine" comments and other acts pulled out.
- Sheeran stated that his concerts are a safe space for everyone and that he is against venues pre-approving performer content.
- He expressed that the situation in Gaza is "catastrophic and unjustifiable" and that the events in Israel on Oct. 7 were "horrific."
- His heart has been broken by the "devastation and loss of civilians’ lives, of children’s lives and the systemic justice" in the West Bank.
- He is listening and learning to contribute to helping victims.
- Sheeran reiterated that his songs are about love, hope, and unity.