Macklemore has announced the cancellation of his October 4 concert in Dubai, citing his opposition to the United Arab Emirates’ support for Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The US rapper expressed his discontent with the UAE’s involvement in Sudan’s ongoing civil war through an Instagram post.
“The current situation in Sudan is urgent, horrific, and it’s going largely unnoticed globally,” Macklemore wrote. “I’m following the lead of Sudanese organizers and activists who are trying to be heard. Until the UAE stops arming and funding the RSF, I will not perform there.”
The UAE has denied these allegations, although United Nations experts have found them to be credible. The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, erupted from a power struggle between the army and the RSF, who had previously shared power following a coup. Despite peace talks, the fighting continues, leaving approximately half of Sudan’s 50 million people without adequate food.
Macklemore’s decision to cancel his performance due to political reasons is notable. The Grammy-winning artist stated that he has been reevaluating his career and his role in activism. “If I take the money, while knowing it doesn’t sit right with my spirit, how am I any different than the politicians I’ve been actively protesting against?” he wrote, encouraging other artists scheduled to perform in Dubai to reconsider their engagements.
