Ed Sheeran Told U2 He Didn’t Want to ‘Get Into Politics’ While Making Track About Ukraine’s War With Russia, Says Bono

**Ed Sheeran and U2: Navigating Politics in Music Amid Controversy**

Earlier this year, Ed Sheeran collaborated with U2 on a track titled “Yours Eternally,” featured in the band’s surprise 2026 EP, *Days of Ash*. The song draws on the experiences of a Ukrainian soldier amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, and it also includes contributions from Ukrainian musician Taras Topalia. However, the collaboration has stirred discussions about the intersection of music and politics, particularly regarding Sheeran’s reluctance to engage in political discourse during the creative process.

In a recent interview with *Rolling Stone UK*, U2 frontman Bono spoke about his experience working with Sheeran, indicating that the pop star was hesitant to discuss political themes. Bono recalled, “When we did ‘Yours Eternally,’ he was saying, ‘You’re not going to get me into politics, are you?’” This very reluctance has become a focal point in the current landscape of celebrity involvement in socio-political issues.

The situation has been further complicated by recent events surrounding Sheeran’s Loop Tour. Last month, Macklemore, one of Sheeran’s supporting acts, was removed from the tour after expressing support for Palestine during a performance. Following Macklemore’s exit, several other artists, including Finneas and Lukas Graham, also withdrew from the tour, citing solidarity with Palestine.

Bono suggested that focusing on individual artists like Sheeran and Macklemore detracts from the larger issues at play. He shared insights from music producer Brian Eno, who remarked that pop stars often feel like “little fish in a large sea of huge forces and religion and politics.” Bono added that it is vital not to personalise the ongoing conflict, as it risks overshadowing the complexities involved.

U2’s drummer, Larry Mullen Jr., echoed Bono’s sentiments, stating that artists should have the autonomy to decide whether or not to engage in political matters. He highlighted that it is crucial to respect these choices, irrespective of individual opinions. Mullen Jr. noted that with the shifting dynamics in the industry, artists may take time to come to their own conclusions about their roles in relation to political discourse.

However, U2 themselves have not shied away from controversial issues, historically tackling significant topics through their music. Mullen Jr. condemned the influence of wealthy promoters over artists’ freedom of expression, specifically referencing Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, who played a role in Macklemore’s removal from the tour. “We are absolutely clear about promoters or billionaire owners and the idea that they could have some influence on what you say or what you do on a stage,” Mullen Jr. stated, highlighting U2’s commitment to maintaining their artistic integrity in the face of external pressures.

Macklemore, who returned to the spotlight following his removal, announced plans to donate his earnings from Sheeran’s tour to organisations supporting Palestinian causes. In a noteworthy response, he extended an invitation to Kraft, suggesting he match his contribution. Kraft attempted to balance the situation by asserting his belief in the importance of protecting all lives and mentioned that he was addressing the humanitarian crisis as well.

As the controversy unfolded, Sheeran addressed fans during a concert, acknowledging the difficult decisions he faced in the wake of the situation. Expressing regret over the turn of events, he stated, “I am making mistakes, and I’m so, so sorry.” He positioned himself as an artist caught in a challenging debate about freedom of speech and the broader implications of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Sheeran’s comments reflected his deep concern over the humanitarian implications of the situation, particularly after the tragic events that occurred at the Nova music festival in Israel on October 7. He described the events as horrific and expressed sorrow over the widespread loss of life, stating, “The scale of devastation and loss of civilians’ lives, of children’s lives, is heartbreaking.” His candid remarks suggest a shift toward greater awareness of global issues, even as he grapples with the expectations placed upon him as a musician.

The intersection of music, politics, and personal responsibility continues to evoke strong responses within the industry. This current landscape captures the conflicting desires of artists to maintain their creative freedom while also addressing inevitable sociopolitical realities. As music continues to act as a reflection of societal values, the ongoing conversations surrounding artists like Ed Sheeran and Macklemore will likely evolve, spotlighting the intricate relationships between creativity and conscience in an increasingly complicated world.