Artists, promoters and venues have their own kind of power on troubled tours like Ed Sheeran's

Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour has been thrown into chaos after four supporting acts quit in solidarity with rapper Macklemore, who was reportedly dropped following pro-Palestinian comments during a stop at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium. Sheeran said on Instagram that the promoter made the decision and he had no control. The promoter said venues wouldn’t allow Macklemore to perform. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft said the decision reflected Macklemore’s comments and “a broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery.” Industry experts told The Associated Press that promoters handle the money, ticket sales and venue negotiations, but superstar headliners typically retain approval over major elements—largely because their box-office pull dictates terms.