Following the effervescent “Azizam” and the nostalgic warmth of “Old Phone,” Ed Sheeran returns with “Sapphire”, an exuberant, technicolor anthem that sets the tone for summer 2025. Infused with global rhythms and pop euphoria, the track marks a bold new chapter for the artist as he teases his forthcoming album, Play.
A radiant celebration of love and connection, Sapphire unites Sheeran’s signature melodic sensibility with South Asian instrumentation and a guest appearance from acclaimed Indian vocalist Arijit Singh. The result is a lush, cross-cultural collaboration, brought to life by producers Ilya Salmanzadeh, Johnny McDaid, and Savan Kotecha. Singh’s soaring vocals, traditional percussion, and sitar lines blend seamlessly with Sheeran’s performance, creating a transcendent sonic experience.
“This was the first song I finished for Play that showed me where the album was heading,” says Sheeran. “Recording it in Goa with some of India’s finest musicians was an unforgettable experience. And getting Arijit on the track was the final piece of the puzzle.”
The official video, directed by Liam Pethick, captures Sheeran’s recent India tour in vivid detail. Opening on a rooftop at sunrise, the journey moves through riversides, vibrant markets, Bollywood backlots, and more. It culminates in a studio session and motorcycle ride with Arijit Singh, along with a visit to A.R. Rahman’s music school. A cameo by Bollywood legend Shah Rukh Khan adds extra sparkle to an already rich visual narrative.
A Punjabi version of Sapphire, featuring even more of Arijit Singh, will also be released in the coming weeks.
Sapphire sets the stage for Play, Sheeran’s highly anticipated new album arriving September 12, 2025. Departing from his acclaimed Mathematics series, Play reflects Sheeran’s global musical explorations, especially inspired by Indian, Persian, and Irish traditions. The album promises a dynamic blend of pop-forward production, sweeping ballads, and acoustic intimacy.
To celebrate, Sheeran will return to the stage in July for three sold-out shows at Portman Road, Ipswich, featuring special guests across each night including Tori Kelly, Busted, James Blunt, and more. A proud supporter and sponsor of Ipswich Town FC, Sheeran will donate £1 from every ticket sold to the Live Trust, a new initiative supporting grassroots music communities.
