Ed Sheeran Tour Support Act Contest Faces Fake Entries After Support Acts Withdraw

1-Minute Brief

The contest to find a new support act for Ed Sheeran's tour has drawn scrutiny amid controversy over Macklemore's removal and a surge of fake entries.

Key Facts

• All previous support acts for Ed Sheeran’s Loop tour withdrew in solidarity with US rapper Macklemore after his removal.
• Macklemore was removed from the tour following his pro-Palestine comments.
• The contest to find a new support act for Sheeran’s tour has been flooded with fake or 'not legitimate' entries.
• Guitar Center, which is involved with the contest, addressed concerns about the authenticity of submissions.
• US fans with Ed Sheeran tickets have expressed mixed reactions to the controversy, according to BBC.

What Happened

Following the withdrawal of all support acts from Ed Sheeran’s Loop tour after Macklemore was removed, a contest to find a new opener has been inundated with fake entries. Guitar Center has responded to concerns about the legitimacy of these submissions.

Why It Matters

The situation highlights the intersection of music, free speech, and political controversy, affecting both the tour’s lineup and public perception. The challenges in running the contest may impact the tour’s ability to secure a new support act.

What's Next

Organizers are expected to review contest entries for legitimacy and announce a new support act. Ongoing public and industry reactions to the controversy may influence future tour decisions.