Politics
Ed Sheeran apparently told Bono that he refused to get involved in politics while collaborating on a track about Ukraine.
Published October 4, 2026, 6:05 PM ET
Article continues below advertisement
Ed Sheeran told Prohibit: He did not want to delve into difficult issues when working with U2 on a song inspired by the war in Ukraine.
“You won’t bring me into politics, right?” Bono recently recalled Sheeran’s question Interview.
Article continues below advertisement
Article continues below advertisement
Sheeran wants to keep his music separate
Bono explained that the track honors a Ukrainian soldier who was in love with Ed Sheeran.
The U2 frontman explained that the conversation took place while the musicians were working on “Yours Eternally”, a track from U2’s 2026 EP. days of glory This also includes Ukrainian composers Taras Topolya.
The song is written from the perspective of a Ukrainian soldier during Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
Bono recalled explaining to the 35-year-old singer, “I said, ‘This soldier who inspired us loved you, Ed, and you worked on this song.'”
The “Thinking Out Loud” singer was adamant, saying, “Yeah, but I just want to keep my thing free.”
Article continues below advertisement
Bono Reveals Artists Often Face Pressure Over Political Issues
Bono urged people not to personalize Macklemore’s removal from Ed Sheeran’s tour, instead highlighting broader industry pressures.
More:
Ed Sheeran
Want it right! each day? Sign up here!
Article continues below advertisement
U2 have taken a different approach
Bono and Larry Mullen Jr. said that U2 willingly accepts political battles, but they respect artists who choose a different path.
Bono’s Irish rock band has a long history of addressing political and humanitarian themes through their music and performances.
U2 drummer larry mullen jr quoted manufacturer brian enoargues that artists can decide for themselves whether they want to be involved in political issues or not.
“It’s not our job to criticize it, no matter how we feel,” Mullen added, adding that U2 would object to promoters or wealthy venue owners attempting to dictate what musicians could say on stage. He pointed to the band’s history with songs including “Sunday Bloody Sunday”.
Bono similarly acknowledged that U2 willingly fights political battles but respects those who choose a different path.
The singer said, “We’re in this trouble. It’s what we do and we’re happy to do it.” “But we’d also love to know if other people don’t want to get involved in a similar fight.”
Sheeran’s viewpoint comes under new scrutiny
Ed Sheeran blamed his promoter for Macklemore’s removal, with the latter denouncing the Gaza conflict while rejecting the role of music activist.
Bono’s comments come as Sheeran faces renewed attention over his position on political expression after Macklemore Controversy.
Sheeran later clarified the “Thrift Shop” hitmaker’s removal from his remaining dates: “Macklemore pulling out of the tour was the promoter’s decision, it wasn’t mine.”
The British singer later addressed the Israel–Palestine conflict during a September concert, saying that the suffering in Gaza was “devastating and unfair”.
“I am heartbroken by the massive destruction and loss of lives of civilians and children,” Sheeran wrote in a letter. Instagram statement.
However, he stated that he did not want to become an active musician or turn his shows into political platforms.