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Lisa Nandy Backs Ed Sheeran After Tour Exodus

Lisa Nandy, the UK Culture Secretary, has spoken out in support of Ed Sheeran after every remaining support act on his US tour withdrew from the bill. She made her comments during an appearance on LBC's Nick Ferrari at Breakfast.

The trouble began when rapper Macklemore was removed from the tour over pro-Palestinian remarks he made on stage. His exit then prompted the other opening artists to step away as well.

Nandy said she felt for Sheeran, describing the situation he faced as genuinely difficult and impossible. She noted that he had wanted to give supporting artists a platform, but that promoters were not willing to continue once politics became part of the picture. She also said she hoped the row would not damage his tour, calling him one of the UK's most successful artists, praising the work he does to reinvest in young people in Ipswich, and describing him as one of the nicest people she has dealt with.

On the broader question of politics in music, Nandy pointed to the long and proud tradition of artists using their work and their platforms to speak about issues in society. At the same time, she said audiences increasingly want entertainment to offer an escape from global tensions, explaining that life is hard for many people right now and that plenty of them just want a space to set politics aside and enjoy the music.

Her remarks come amid continuing debate about political expression in mainstream live entertainment. The full interview, which also covered media, culture and the music industry, aired on LBC's breakfast show, hosted by Nick Ferrari.

Photo: Music-News
Source: Muzland
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