Ed Sheeran Honors Indian Culture in New Single ‘Sapphire’ Ahead of Forthcoming Album "Play"
Wafricnews - 6 june 2025
Global music sensation Ed Sheeran has paid vibrant tribute to India in his newly released single, “Sapphire,” a rhythmic celebration from his upcoming album Play, set to drop on September 12.
The track, which blends South Asian sounds with Sheeran’s signature lyrical intimacy, features Indian music superstar Arijit Singh and a special appearance by Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan in the music video — all shot on location across India. Singh not only sings but also brings the sitar to life on the record, adding an authentic cultural texture to the sound.
Produced by Ilya Salmanzadeh, Johnny McDaid, and Savan Kotecha, “Sapphire” is a fusion of joyful percussion and sensual lyricism. In his usual heartfelt style, Sheeran sings:
"Touching on your body while you’re pushing on me / Don’t you end the party, I could do this all week."
"Touching on your body while you’re pushing on me / Don’t you end the party, I could do this all week."
The artist revealed via Instagram that Sapphire was the song that set the tone for the rest of the Play album. Inspired by his time in India, Sheeran decided to complete the recording process in Goa, where he was creatively surrounded by Indian musicians.
“It was an incredible creative process,” Sheeran shared. “We wanted to showcase the beauty and breadth of the country and its culture.”
Sheeran also confirmed that a Punjabi version of the song, with more vocals from Arijit Singh, will be released in the coming weeks.
“Me and him have done a full Punjabi version of the song... This is the album version, and my favourite song on the album. Hope you guys love it.”
According to Sheeran, the Play album was born from a personal journey out of darkness.
“It’s a response to the darkest period of my life,” he explained. “Coming out of all that, I just wanted to create joy and technicolour, and explore cultures in the countries I was touring.”
Play was recorded across multiple global locations and finalized in India — an experience Sheeran calls one of “the most fun, explorative creative days of my life.”
The album follows previously released singles “Azizam” and “Old Phone,” and will be the first in a new musical series titled Play, Rewind, Fast-Forward, and Stop — a creative continuation of the mathematical themes in his past albums.
As fans around the world await the full project, “Sapphire” is already sparking conversations and celebrations of cross-cultural collaboration and music without borders.
By Wafricnews Desk
By Wafricnews Desk
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