Macklemore has posted an apology on his website after receiving criticism from Jewish groups for wearing an on-stage costume that some say was anti-Semitic during a performance in Seattle last week.

The rapper explained his choice of costume from last Friday's show by saying that he randomly selected the pieces from the costume so that he could walk freely around the venue in disguise without being hassled by fans, emphasising that it wasn't intended to resemble a caricature of a Jewish man.

He wrote on his website: "I respect all cultures and all people. I would never intentionally put down anybody for the fabric that makes them who they are. I love human beings, love originality, and ... happen to love a weird outfit at the same time."

The costume Macklemore chose included a black wig and fake beard, as well as an oversized nose but, rather than criticise his detractors, Macklemore wrote that he understood where they were coming from.

"I acknowledge how the costume could, within a context of stereotyping, be ascribed to a Jewish caricature", he said. "I am here to say that it was not absolutely my intention, and unfortunately at the time I did not forsee the costumed to be viewed in such regard. I'm saddened that this story, or any of my choices, would lead to any form of negativity."

Actor Seth Rogan is among the people criticising Macklemore online. A tweet he wrote last night in response to Macklemore's explanation of his actions said: "Really? Because if I told someone to put together an anti-Semitic Jew costume, they'd have the exact same shopping list."