Macklemore cancels Dubai concert over UAE support for RSF
Rapper protests UAE's support for Sudan's RSF, cancels October concert
American rapper Macklemore has cancelled his October concert in Dubai due to the United Arab Emirates’ support for Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), involved in the country’s civil war. On Saturday, Macklemore shared his decision on Instagram, citing the urgent and horrific situation in Sudan.
He stated he is following Sudanese activists’ lead in seeking global attention for the crisis. He vowed not to perform in the UAE until it ceases arming and funding the RSF.
Dubai, known for hosting international artists and sporting events, rarely sees cancellations over political reasons. The UAE’s foreign ministry and global media office did not immediately comment on Macklemore’s cancellation.
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The UAE has faced public criticism from Sudan’s army over alleged support for the RSF, though the UAE denies these claims. U.N. experts, however, have deemed the allegations credible, leading to heated exchanges at the U.N. Security Council in June.
The conflict in Sudan erupted in April 2023 from competition between the army and the RSF, who had previously shared power after a coup. Despite ongoing ceasefire talks in Switzerland, fighting continues, leaving half of Sudan’s 50 million people without food.
Macklemore, a Grammy winner, mentioned that the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza influenced his decision to reassess how he earns money and uses his platform for activism.
He questioned if accepting money that conflicts with his values would make him no different from the politicians he protests against. He also urged other artists scheduled to perform in Dubai to reconsider.
In May, Macklemore released “Hind’s Hall,” a protest anthem supporting pro-Palestinian activists on university campuses in response to the Gaza conflict.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Billboard reports that Macklemore cancelled his Dubai concert due to the UAE’s involvement in the Sudanese humanitarian crisis and genocide, aligning with his recent support for Palestinians. (read more)
- VOA News reports on US rapper Macklemore’s decision to cancel his Dubai show over UAE’s involvement in the Sudan conflict, sparked by Sudanese activists and his support for Palestinians in Gaza. (read more)
- CBS News reports that American rapper Macklemore canceled his Dubai show due to the United Arab Emirates’ involvement in the Sudan conflict, supporting the paramilitary forces. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why did Macklemore cancel his Dubai concert?
Macklemore cancelled his Dubai concert in protest of the UAE’s alleged support for Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.
What did Macklemore say about the situation in Sudan?
Macklemore described the situation in Sudan as urgent and horrific, going largely unnoticed globally.
How has the UAE responded to the allegations of supporting the RSF?
The UAE denies the allegations, although U.N. experts have said they are credible.
What prompted Macklemore to reconsider his earnings from performances?
The war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza prompted Macklemore to reconsider how he earns money and use his artistic platform for activism.
What did Macklemore release in May in response to the Gaza conflict?
Macklemore released ‘Hind’s Hall,’ a high-profile protest anthem in solidarity with pro-Palestinian activists.
