Having wrapped up his ‘Mathematics’ series, Ed Sheeran is finally back and boldly entering a new phase. Known for his constant evolution, Sheeran’s latest album ‘Play’ sees him explore new musical horizons, collaborating with producers and musicians from around the world, and delving deeper into the timeless melodies and themes that have made him one of the world’s most beloved pop artists. Inspired by his exposure to Indian and Persian musical cultures – and their surprising connections to the Irish folk tradition he grew up with, through shared musical scales, rhythms and melodies – he explores this musical language without boundaries, giving the album his distinctive, fresh edge. On more familiar ground, Sheeran also reminds us why he remains the most influential singer-songwriter of his generation, delivering a series of stunning ballads and acoustic-focused songs. The result is a collection that weaves together both the familiar and the new, creating a bold, pop sound that only Ed Sheeran could deliver - a vibrant showcase of his artistry that is both exhilarating and transformative, and promises to be one of the defining albums of the year.
Ed Sheeran says… “Play is an album that was made as a direct response to the darkest period of my life. Coming out of all that, I just wanted to create joy and multi-colour, and explore the cultures in the countries I was touring. I made this album all over the world, finished it in Goa, India, and had some of the most fun, exploratory creative days of my life. It’s a real rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish, it encapsulates everything I love about music, and the fun in it, but also where I am in life as a person, a partner, a father. Going into this album campaign, I said to myself, ‘I just want everything I do to be fun and playful’ – that’s why we’re building party bars, doing shows in open-top buses and singing in pink cowboy hats in bars. The older I get, the more I just want to enjoy things and enjoy the moments that are crazy and chaotic.”
Following the release of his global, hedonistic, colorful pop hit “Azizam ,” Sheeran releases his brand new single “Old Phone,” a tale of the disorienting act of reconnecting with his past. Featuring an old phone that hasn’t been used since 2015, he digs up messages from a lost friend, an argument with an ex, and distance from family, highlighting how time and separation alter identity. Blending nostalgic acoustic melodies with raw, honest emotion, the song harks back to Ed’s early songwriting roots while exploring growth and memory, capturing an artist shaped and transformed by his past. “Old Phone” was produced by Blake Slatkin and Ilya Salmanzadeh.
Contents:
A1. Opening
A2. Sapphire
A3. Azizam
A4. Old Phone
A5. Symmetry
A6. Camera
A7. In Other Words
B1. A Little More
B2. Slowly
B3. Don't Look Down
B4. The Vow
B5. For Always
B6. Heaven
