Classic Hits Radio, an Irish station, has taken Ed Sheeran's music off its playlist after receiving listener feedback connected to a controversy involving the rapper Macklemore, according to the Irish Examiner. The station's decision was reported on Thursday, September 17, 2026.
RTÉ also reported that Classic Hits Radio dropped Sheeran from its playlist, confirming the move independently of the Irish Examiner's account.
The dispute at the center of the feedback traces to Macklemore's role on a tour with Sheeran. The Journal reported that Macklemore plans to give $1 million of his earnings from the Ed Sheeran tour to Palestinian organisations.
The decision by the Irish station drew commentary beyond Ireland. The Guardian published a column by Howard Bryant describing Robert Kraft, the NFL owner, as "just another billionaire silencing Macklemore," framing the episode around the rapper's treatment. The Irish Independent carried a piece by John Meagher arguing that Sheeran's effort to avoid giving offence has itself caused offence.
Taken together, the coverage shows the station's playlist change is one strand of a wider argument involving Sheeran, Macklemore, and Macklemore's stated donation pledge, with reaction spanning Irish and international outlets.
What to watch next: whether other stations follow Classic Hits Radio's lead, and whether Sheeran or Macklemore respond publicly to the playlist decision.