Ed Sheeran has found a new opening act for his upcoming tour dates, with country singer Oliver Anthony set to join him after Sheeran’s split with Macklemore.
Anthony will make his debut on the tour at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, this coming weekend, where he is expected to perform a 30-minute set before Sheeran takes the stage.
The addition comes during a turbulent period for Sheeran’s tour, which has undergone several changes following the controversy surrounding Macklemore and his political comments during concerts.
Alex Bruno, Sheeran’s tour manager, said Anthony was an obvious choice because of the way he connects with audiences.
“Oliver is able to connect with everyone without making every performance some kind of political statement,” Bruno said. “That’s exactly the type of vibe Ed needs before he hits the stage.”
Bruno said Sheeran wasn’t simply looking for another big name to fill an opening slot. The team wanted an artist who could create a strong atmosphere while allowing the audience to focus on the music.
“Oliver has a very direct way of performing,” Bruno said. “He gets on stage, picks up his guitar and sings. There’s no need to overcomplicate it.”
Anthony is expected to perform for roughly 30 minutes before Sheeran begins his headline set.
The Nashville appearance could also be a particularly fitting introduction for Anthony, given the city’s deep connection to country music.
According to Bruno, Anthony’s ability to appeal to a broad audience was another reason he was selected.
“We wanted somebody who could play for a stadium full of people and make them feel like they’re listening to something personal,” Bruno said. “Oliver can do that.”
The move follows Sheeran’s decision to part ways with Macklemore after the controversy surrounding political statements made by the rapper during his performances.
The situation has created a series of changes to Sheeran’s touring plans, with several artists stepping away from upcoming dates.
Sheeran has continued to emphasize that he wants his own performances to remain centered on music. He has said that artists have the right to express their opinions, but he prefers to keep political debates separate from his concerts.
Anthony’s music is now expected to provide a different tone before Sheeran takes the stage.
Meanwhile, Macklemore has now missed seven tour appearances this year, adding another twist to a complicated touring schedule.
Bruno said the changes haven’t altered Sheeran’s focus.
“At the end of the day, Ed wants people to have a great night,” he said. “That’s what matters. The opening act should get the crowd excited, and then Ed comes out and does what he does best.”
Anthony said he was excited about the opportunity to perform for Sheeran’s audience.
“I’m looking forward to getting on that stage,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity, and Nashville is the perfect place to start.”
His 30-minute set will precede Sheeran’s performance at Nissan Stadium, with fans expected to get a mix of country and pop throughout the evening.
For Sheeran, the addition of Anthony gives the tour another familiar face and a new musical voice.
After weeks of lineup changes, the singer now appears ready to move forward with a simple plan: bring people together, play some music and put on a good show.
