Ed Sheeran has released his eighth studio album, 'Play,' on September 12, 2025, marking a significant shift towards a more expansive and joyful musical direction. This album is the first in a planned series of five, with subsequent releases titled 'Pause,' 'Fast Forward,' 'Rewind,' and 'Stop.' 'Play' showcases Sheeran's embrace of diverse cultural influences, notably incorporating sounds from Persian and Indian music traditions.
The lead single, "Azizam," which translates to "my dear" in Farsi, features traditional Persian rhythms and instruments, with producer Illya Salmanzadeh drawing on his Iranian heritage to shape the track's sound. Salmanzadeh, an Iranian-born Swedish songwriter and producer, has previously worked with major artists like Ariana Grande and Sam Smith. Another highlight, "Symmetry," blends dance-pop with Indian percussion, creating a rich sonic experience. The album also includes "Sapphire," a collaboration with Indian vocalist Arijit Singh, which incorporates Punjabi influences and a mix of English, Hindi, and Punjabi lyrics. Sheeran traveled to Singh's hometown to learn the necessary vocal parts for the song.
Critics have noted that while 'Play' integrates global sounds, it often weaves them into Sheeran's established pop framework. The album is seen as a deliberate pivot from the more somber tones of his previous albums, '- (Subtract)' and 'Autumn Variations.' Sheeran has described 'Play' as an album that helped him "fall in love with fun again," aiming to celebrate "love, life, culture, exploring, creativity and technicolour."
Beyond its international influences, 'Play' also revisits Sheeran's signature storytelling style. Tracks like "Old Phone" and "The Vow" offer personal reflections on relationships and life experiences, reminiscent of his earlier hits. The opening track, "Opening," directly addresses Sheeran's reflections on fame and career uncertainties. The album's diverse themes, from romance and family life to cultural exploration, provide a multifaceted listening experience, highlighting Sheeran's renewed sense of creative freedom and embrace of global artistry.