Ed Sheeran taps The Fray's Isaac Slade to open Atlanta show after Macklemore exit

Ed Sheeran chose Isaac Slade, former lead singer of The Fray, to open his Atlanta concert on October 3, following Macklemore's removal and other lineup changes. Slade addressed the recent controversy during the performance. Slade expressed respect for both Macklemore, for speaking out on innocent lives lost, and Sheeran, for creating a safe space for all attendees regardless of belief. He encouraged finding common ground, noting peace is not the absence of conflict. The concert at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was part of Sheeran's ongoing tour. Slade's remarks referenced the dispute that led to Macklemore's departure, with Slade calling for courage to bridge divides during this difficult period.