WATCH: Grammy winner Macklemore wows Calgary Stampede crowd while rocking a Flames jersey

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Jul 12, 2024 20:08 GMT

Macklemore shouted out to the Calgary Flames while performing at the Cowboys Music Festival. He wore a personalized Flames jersey with his name and No. 24, performing "Can't Hold Us." His performance was on the fifth night, alongside Flo Rida and Shaboozey, as Stampede celebrations continued through the weekend.

On Friday, Macklemore posted a video on Instagram performing while holding a Palestinian flag and openly supporting a free Palestine.

In May 2024, Macklemore released a song titled "Hind's Hall" supporting pro-Palestinian protests. The song mentions renaming Hamilton Hall at Columbia University to honor a Palestinian child killed in Gaza. Macklemore criticizes US funding of Israel and describes its actions in Palestinian territories as apartheid. Macklemore also calls out the music industry for silence and criticizes President Biden's support of Israel.

Part of the song's chorus sums up its support for Palestinian freedom movements:

"Block the barricade until Palestine is free..."

Macklemore has been an avid supporter of social justice issues throughout his career, in his music, speeches, and social media posts.

Matthew Tkachuk attended Calgary Stampede after winning Stanley Cup with Panthers

Florida Panthers winger Matthew Tkachuk attended the Stampede on July 7, just weeks after winning the Stanley Cup. Despite leaving the Flames in 2022, he still loves Calgary. Sporting a cowboy hat, fans seemed happy to see him at the annual event.

Although Tkachuk left the Flames after not committing to a long-term extension, he maintains a good relationship with fans. He took playful shots at rival Edmonton during the Panthers' Stanley Cup parade.

“I heard it’s 70 degrees and sunny in Edmonton, but they ain’t got no Cup,” Tkachuk said.

He also gave a special shoutout to Flames fans after winning it all.

“Shoutout to my fans in Calgary, you knew I couldn’t let Edmonton win,” Tkachuk said via (Sportsnet).

Tkachuk won his first Stanley Cup which he dedicated to his parents, primarily father Keith who did not win the Cup in his 18-season NHL career.

Edmonton Oilers winger Evander Kane at Calgary Stampede

Edmonton Oilers winger Evander Kane met with Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre and his wife Anaida during the Calgary Stampede. The event, known for being one of the greatest outdoor shows, attracted thousands.

Attendees enjoyed pancakes, live music, thrilling rides, and rodeo events after the parade. Kane was spotted in his cowboy gear with the Poilievres, who were in matching western-themed outfits.

Kane also met Canadian politician Brian Michael Jean, who served as Minister of Jobs. Both posed for a picture in cowboy outfits which Jean later posted on X and captioned,

"The Calgary Stampede is a gathering ground for people from all across this great country — even Edmonton Oilers. Great to bump into @evanderkane out enjoying the festivities tonight! #LetsGoOilers"

Stampede is quite popular among NHL athletes, who mark their presence every year for the festivities.