Global superstar Ed Sheeran is back with a bold new sound, announcing his highly anticipated new single, “Sapphire,” set for release today, June 5, 2025. This dazzling anthem marks a significant shift for the artist, moving beyond his "Mathematics" series and stepping into a fresh phase with his upcoming album, Play, due out on September 12, 2025.
Following the success of "Azizam" and "Old Phone," "Sapphire" radiates with vibrant pop energy and rich cross-cultural influences. The track is a luminous celebration of love, featuring captivating vocals, intricate South-Asian percussion, and backing vocals from legendary Indian artist Arijit Singh. This unique tapestry of sound, produced by Ilya Salmanzadeh, Johnny McDaid, and Savan Kotecha, takes listeners on a sonic journey that is both intimate and expansive.
Sheeran shared his excitement about the new single, stating, "Sapphire was the first song I finished for Play that made me know where the album was heading. It's why I finished the recording process in Goa surrounded by some of the best musicians in India. It was an incredible creative process." He also revealed a full Punjabi version of the song featuring more of Arijit Singh, set for release in the coming weeks, calling "Sapphire" his favorite song on the album.
The visually stunning music video for “Sapphire,” directed by Liam Pethick, features Arijit Singh and a cameo from iconic actor Shah Rukh Khan. It begins with Sheeran performing at dawn on a rooftop, transitioning into a vibrant journey across various Indian locales, including serene beaches, bustling markets, and Bollywood backlots. Highlights include studio sessions and a motorcycle ride with Arijit, plus a visit to the A.R. Rahman music school.
Play promises to be a transformative album, with Sheeran exploring new musical ground through collaborations with global musicians and diving deeper into timeless themes. Inspired by Indian and Persian musical cultures and their surprising connections to Irish folk traditions, the album embraces a "borderless musical language." While venturing into new sounds, Sheeran also delivers stunning ballads and acoustic-driven songs, reminding fans why he remains a generation's most influential singer-songwriter.
Adding to the excitement, Sheeran has announced three immediate sold-out live shows at Portman Road, Ipswich, kicking off on July 11. These performances, featuring special guests like Myles Smith, Tori Kelly, Busted, Dylan, James Blunt, and Maisie Peters, mark his first UK headline shows since 2023. These concerts will include debut performances from Play alongside fan favorites. Notably, £1 from every ticket sold will be donated to the newly launched Live Trust, supporting the grassroots music sector.
