Ed Sheeran has released his eighth album, “Play,” on Sept 12. The album consists of 18 songs that inspire listeners to connect with their feelings through music. The lead single from Sheeran’s album, “Azizam,” skyrocketed to number three on UK charts and number 28 in the US, setting the tone for the rest of the album. 

The album has a collection of cultural harmonies along with rap and pop songs that entertain all audiences. Sheeran’s album was marketed globally and his song “Sapphire” hit number one in Goa, India, where he finalized the song. Sheeran additionally featured Arijit Singh, a playback singer and composer born in India on his song. Singh was featured on “Sapphire,” bringing a whole new group of listeners to Sheeran’s fan base. 

“He’s one of the most talented humans I’ve ever met and I’m so grateful he shared his talent with me for this song,” Sheeran said on Instagram. 

Despite his often upbeat music, some songs like “Old Phone” have a deeper meaning. This song is about him finding his old phone and viewing all the old memories which brought him heartache from seeing his deceased friends as if they were still alive. This song travels through the depression and grief he has had to struggle with for the past couple of years. When he wrote the song he was on a break from making music and was able to take time to reflect on his life and past relationships. 

“Artists aren’t one-dimensional,” Sheeran said in an interview with NPR. “Artists are allowed to do different things at different times in their careers. I feel like that’s the most interesting part of any artist’s career.”

Despite his long-lasting music career, every year Sheeran proves his ability to grow and develop as an artist. Sheeran is coming to Foxboro, MA Sept. 25 and 26, 2026. Sheeran’s tour begins in Paris, France on Dec. 1 of this year and is sent to end in Tampa, Florida on Nov. 7, 2026.