Kid Rock is set to join Ed Sheeran for a seven-concert run across the United States, stepping in after several opening acts and members of Sheeran’s house band walked away amid the growing controversy surrounding the singer’s decision to keep politics out of his musical performances.
The unexpected partnership comes as Sheeran faces growing criticism following the turmoil surrounding his U.S. tour. Rather than backing away from his decision to keep politics off the stage, Sheeran has continued to maintain that his concerts are about music and bringing people together.
Kid Rock reached out to Sheeran as the controversy intensified, telling the British singer that he was not going to let him face the situation alone.
“I told Ed that he is not alone,” Kid Rock said. “He came to play music, not to make political speeches. That’s enough for me.”
Kid Rock’s offer of support quickly turned into a seven-concert tour alongside Sheeran, with the two musicians preparing to share the stage at venues across the country.
Sheeran thanked Kid Rock for stepping forward and also acknowledged several other musicians who have backed him during the controversy.
“I am used to playing with great musicians, but this is something else,” Sheeran said. “Having musicians such as Kid Rock, Jason Aldean, Morgan Wallen and Hank Williams Jr. backing me means a lot.”
The support comes after several performers connected to Sheeran’s tour decided to distance themselves from him, creating uncertainty around the remaining shows and leaving Sheeran with the challenge of rebuilding parts of his touring lineup.
Kid Rock said he wasn’t interested in getting caught up in the arguments surrounding Sheeran or telling him how he should conduct his concerts.
“Ed doesn’t need somebody standing there telling him what he should say,” Kid Rock said. “He needs people who are willing to stand beside him and play music. That’s what I’m here to do.”
The seven concerts will take place at venues across the United States, including a stop at Gillette Stadium.
Sheeran said having fellow musicians come forward with their support has meant a great deal to him.
“When things get complicated, you find out who your friends are,” Sheeran said. “I’m grateful to everyone who has reached out and shown their support.”
Kid Rock said joining the tour wasn’t about turning the concerts into another political battleground.
“I’m not going out there to give political speeches,” he said. “I’m going out there to play music, have a good time and make sure these shows happen.”
The collaboration brings together two artists from very different musical backgrounds, but both are expected to share the same stage during the seven-show run.
For Sheeran, the sudden support could provide a major boost as he moves forward with his tour. For Kid Rock, the decision is simply about standing beside another musician during a difficult moment.
“I told Ed I’ve got his back,” Kid Rock said. “Now we’re going to get on that stage and put on a hell of a show.”