Macklemore Faces Backlash After Leading “F**k America” Chant During Pro-Palestine Concert

Macklemore, the rapper known for his chart-topping hits, has come under fire after a viral video captured him leading a “F*ck America” chant during a recent performance in Seattle. The outspoken artist, whose real name is Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, was performing at a “Palestine Will Live Forever” concert when he took the stage to criticize the U.S. government’s support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Palestine.

In the viral clip, Macklemore can be heard urging the crowd to join him, saying, “F**k America… Straight up, say it. I’m not going to stop you.” His remarks were met with enthusiastic cheers from the audience. The concert, held at Seattle’s Seward Park Amphitheatre, quickly became a hot topic online, with videos of the incident amassing millions of views.

Macklemore, who has publicly supported Palestine in the past, revealed that the proceeds from the event would be donated to various non-profit organizations, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinian refugees. Despite the charitable intentions, the rapper’s statements ignited a wave of backlash across social media.

"F*ck America" – Macklemore tonight in Seattle. The cheering crowd goes wild. pic.twitter.com/gF8AP6uAje

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) September 22, 2024

Outrage Online: Fans Tell Macklemore to “Leave America”

Following the controversial chant, many internet users expressed their displeasure with Macklemore’s actions, with several calling for the rapper to leave the country if he felt so strongly about his political views. One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Hey @macklemore, since you hate America so much, why don’t you leave? Thanks.” Another chimed in with, “If you hate this country, then get tf out. Go find one that represents your ideals. America doesn’t need your trash here.”

Many echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the rapper’s vocal opposition to the U.S. government while continuing to benefit from the American music industry. “F**k America, yet he works in America, lives in America, and his fans are in America,” one user pointed out. Some even took aim at his personal wealth, suggesting that his comfortable lifestyle contradicts his outspoken criticism of the country.

At the time of writing, Macklemore had not responded to the growing backlash, though his comments have continued to fuel heated debates online.

If you hate this country, there's nothing preventing you from leaving.

— Planet Of Memes (@PlanetOfMemes) September 22, 2024

Hey @macklemore, since you hate America so much why don’t you leave?

Thanks.

— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) September 22, 2024

Macklemore’s History of Political Activism

This is not the first time Macklemore has been vocal about his political beliefs. He has consistently used his platform to advocate for various social justice causes. Last month, the rapper made headlines when he canceled a scheduled concert in Dubai, citing the UAE’s involvement in the humanitarian crisis and genocide in Sudan. On Instagram, he stated that he could not, in good conscience, perform in a country complicit in such atrocities.

Additionally, in May 2024, Macklemore released a pro-Palestinian song titled Hind’s Hall, named after a Columbia University building that students renamed in honor of a young Palestinian girl killed in the Israel-Gaza conflict. The song praised college campuses across the U.S. for their support of Palestine and criticized the government, police, and the music industry. Macklemore recently dropped a new rendition of the song, collaborating with Palestinian artists such as photojournalist Motaz Azaiza and MC Abdul.

Shame.

This country made Macklemore possible. Where else could he have got rich and famous??

Shame.

— The Knowledge Archivist (@KnowledgeArchiv) September 22, 2024

Lyrics and Controversy

The lyrics of Hind’s Hall have also sparked debate, particularly for calling out U.S. politicians, including Vice President Kamala Harris. One verse reads, “Hey Kamala, I don’t know if you listening, but stop sending money and weapons, you ain’t winning Michigan.” The song, which emphasizes solidarity with Palestine, has gained traction among supporters of the cause, while critics have labeled Macklemore’s involvement as controversial and politically charged.

As with his concert, all proceeds from Hind’s Hall and its various renditions are being donated to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees.

While Macklemore’s advocacy continues to draw praise from some, it’s clear that his latest remarks have struck a nerve with many Americans, prompting debates about patriotism, free speech, and the role of celebrities in political activism. Whether or not Macklemore will respond to the criticism remains to be seen, but his position as a polarizing figure in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict is undeniable.

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Shivam Kumar

Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....