Ed Sheeran is being criticized for not supporting rapper Macklemore, who was banned from performing before Sheeran's shows in Boston. Macklemore has been outspoken in his support for the Palestinians and is now being blocked from performing by arena owner and billionaire Robert Kraft, who has previously donated significant sums to Israel.
Sheeran writes on Instagram that he tried to get both the organizers and the arena owner to change their minds, but that it didn't work.
But who really decides what?
"Almost without exception, the organizers do what the artist wants," music lawyer Dean Sheldon Serwin told the AP.
Ultimately, the superstar who is the main act has the final say on everything.
Unlike Ed Sheeran, his other bands have chosen to cancel their gigs in solidarity with Macklemore.
According to manager Lil Gary, it is very unusual for the choice of band to affect how tours go.
