GRAMMY-Winning Rapper Cancels Dubai Show Over Ongoing Sudan War

First listening to rap as a child, the music captured the heart of Macklemore as he eventually started writing music as a teenager. Never losing that love for music, the rapper pursued a career on the stage. And thanks to albums like The Language of My World and Gemini, the rapper watched as his fanbase grew. And while taking his time when in the studio, just last year, Macklemore released his newest album, Ben. Continuing to entertain fans all over the world, the artist recently announced he was canceling a show in Dubai over the Sudan war. 

Although loving the stage and entertaining fans, Macklemore decided to cancel his show after learning about the ongoing conflict. Sharing the news on his Instagram, he wrote, “After careful thought, numerous conversations with trusted organizers and friends and my own reading/research, I have decided to cancel my upcoming show in Dubai this October. I don’t take this decision lightly and think it’s important to explain why.”

Learning about the conflict, Macklemore shared the carnage the area witnessed over the war. “The crisis in Sudan is catastrophic. Over ten million people have been displaced, millions face imminent famine, sexual violence is widespread, and at least 150,000 lives have been lost, including thousands of children. While numerous external forces contribute to the crisis, advocates, organizers, journalists, and officials repeatedly highlight the UAE’s role in funding the RSF militia as a major factor.” 

[RELATED: Macklemore’s New Protest Song Goes Viral, Tom Morello Labels It “The Most Rage Against the Machine Song Since Rage Against the Machine”]

Fans Support Macklemore Canceling His Show

Macklemore ended his thoughts on the conflict, by asking his fellow artists a question. “If we used our platforms to mobilize collective liberations, what could we accomplish? Ultimately, I hope this brings more awareness and conversation about the urgent humanitarian crisis in Sudan. As always, my message is love.” 

Gaining nearly 600,000 likes, fans rallied around the rapper, supporting his decision to cancel the show in order to help bring awareness to those in need. One person insisted, “Your bravery is remarkable, that’s how we all must stand for Justice and the oppressed.” Another comment declared, “You continue to show everyone how it should be done. Thank you.”

(Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)