Ed Sheeran Announces Release of New Song 'Old Phone' and Album 'PLAY'

Ed Sheeran's Musical Evolution Continues with 'PLAY'

Celebrated for his phenomenal record sales and Grammy wins, Ed Sheeran announces the release of his latest single "Old Phone" alongside his upcoming album "PLAY." With a staggering cumulative sales figure of 150 million records and four Grammy Awards to his name, Sheeran continues to be a defining voice in contemporary music.

The new album "PLAY" marks a new milestone for Sheeran as he transitions from his previous album series “Mathematics,” which included hits like "+" (plus), "×" (multiply), "÷" (divide), and "=" (equals). Released in early 2025, this project reflects Sheeran’s commitment to artistic growth, showcasing both his innovative collaborations with international producers and a return to the universal sounds and themes that initially propelled him to global stardom.

Heralding a fresh artistic phase, "PLAY" draws upon Sheeran's experiences with various musical cultures, particularly those of India and Persia, while rediscovering his own Irish folk roots. This cross-cultural exploration reveals common elements in scales, rhythms, and melodies, resulting in a unique sound that breaks down geographical barriers. In addition to incorporating new styles, the album features traditional acoustic ballads and folk-inspired tracks, reaffirming why Sheeran remains one of the most influential singer-songwriters of our time.

The album combines familiar elements with innovative ideas, presenting an unmistakable sound that only Sheeran can create. It's a work filled with artistry and transformative potential, expected to become one of the standout albums of 2025.

Sheeran articulates, “This album was made just after coming out of one of the darkest periods of my life. I wanted to create joy and vibrant colors, exploring the cultures of the countries I visited on tour. It was a process filled with fun and creative freedom. The entire album is a rollercoaster of emotions, expressing my love for music, its joys, and my growth as a human being, partner, and father.”

He adds a thoughtful message for the album's promotion, declaring that he promised to approach it with a sense of joy and playfulness. “As I age, I understand the importance of simply enjoying the moment. I want to cherish the crazy and chaotic moments.”

After the success of his colorful lead single "Azizam," Sheeran presents a nostalgic side in his new track "Old Phone." The song portrays the feelings of reconnecting with the past through an old phone that hasn’t been used since 2015. By powering it on, he rediscovers messages from lost friends, arguments with ex-lovers, and exchanges with distant family members, highlighting how time and distance shape one’s identity.

Musically, this track melds a nostalgic acoustic melody with raw emotions, harking back to Sheeran's early work while digging into themes of growth and memory. It captures a moment in time where his character as an artist began to evolve, revealing how far he has come since then.