Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran released his eighth studio album, Play, on September 12, 2025. The pop album is the first in a planned series of five records named after media player buttons.

Following his more somber albums of 2023, Sheeran has returned to pop with a brighter, more joyful sound. He was inspired by global cultures and sounds during his tour, with notable influences from India and Persia.

Sheeran stated that the album was a response to a difficult period in his life and that he wanted to create something fun and celebratory. He recorded it around the world, finishing it in Goa, India.