Ed Sheeran Drops New Single ‘Old Phone’; Highly Anticipated Album ‘Play’ Coming in September

Johannesburg – After wrapping up his Mathematics series, Ed Sheeran is confidently stepping into a new era in 2025.

An artist in constant evolution, Sheeran’s latest album, “Play,” highlights his exploration of new musical horizons through collaborations with global producers and musicians, while diving deeper into the timeless sounds and themes that have endeared him to pop music fans.

Partially influenced by his experiences with Indian and Persian music cultures and their unexpected connections to the Irish folk traditions of his upbringing, this boundary-defying musical language is evident in the album, giving it a unique and fresh appeal.

In more familiar territory, Sheeran reaffirms his status as the most influential singer-songwriter of his generation, delivering a collection of stunning ballads and acoustic-driven tracks.

The outcome is a compilation that contrasts the familiar with the innovative, creating a bold, pop-infused sound that only Ed Sheeran could produce – a vibrant exhibition of his artistry that feels both exhilarating and transformative, poised to be one of the standout albums of the year.

Ed shared: “Play was created during one of the darkest times in my life.

“Emerging from that, I aimed to foster joy and vibrancy, while exploring the cultures of the countries I toured.

“I crafted this record globally, culminating in Goa, India, where I had some of the most enjoyable and exploratory creative experiences of my life.

“It’s a genuine rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish, encapsulating all that I love about music, the joy it brings, and reflecting my current life as a human, partner, and father.

“As I embarked on this album campaign, I told myself, ‘I want everything I do to be fun and playful’ – which is why we’re building pubs for folk jams, hosting gigs on open-top buses, and donning pink cowboy hats at bars.

“The older I get, the more I crave to savor experiences and relish the crazy, chaotic moments.

“You can preorder ‘Play’ now, with many more playful surprises set to come before its release.”

Following the launch of his vibrant, euphoric pop hit “Azizam,” Sheeran fondly reflects on his new single “Old Phone,” narrating the disorienting journey of reconnecting with his past.

By powering up an old phone that has been turned off since 2015, he finds messages from a lost friend, a conflict with an ex, and distant family, showcasing how time and distance reshape identity.

Blending nostalgic acoustic melodies with raw emotion, the song revisits Ed’s early songwriting roots while reflecting on growth and memory, capturing an artist reshaped by his past.

“Old Phone” was produced by Blake Slatkin & Ilya Salmanzadeh.

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