Members of U2 have addressed the controversy that resulted in Macklemore being kicked off their friend Ed Sheeran ’s tour after the rapper declared “Free Palestine” during a concert, showing support for both artists and criticizing venue owners who use their money and influence to shut down musicians.

The Edge told the BBC in a new interview that U2 “totally support Macklemore’s right as an artist to say what he wanted to say.”

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The guitarist’s support for the rapper didn’t mean he was criticizing Sheeran. The Edge also backed up the English singer-songwriter, saying “I don’t think Ed should be vilified. He was in a difficult situation.”

The Edge also lent his support to the other opening acts and Sheeran’s backing band who left the tour in solidarity with Macklemore. “I commend the other young artists who decided to leave [Sheeran’s] tour.…