Ed Sheeran unveils vibrant new single “Sapphire” from upcoming album Play, featuring Arijit Singh.
Ed Sheeran continues building anticipation for his next studio album Play with the release of his new single “Sapphire”, available now on all major streaming platforms. The track is the latest preview from Play, set to release on September 12 via Gingerbread Man Records/Atlantic Records.
Following earlier singles “Azizam” and “Old Phone,” “Sapphire” infuses Sheeran’s classic pop stylings with South Asian instrumentation, including sitar and vocals by Arijit Singh. The production team—Ilya Salmanzadeh, Johnny McDaid, and Savan Kotecha—creates a lush sonic landscape rich in texture and emotion.
“Sapphire” is about connection and joy, told through a cross-cultural musical lens. The track’s lively percussion and layered melodies place it firmly among Sheeran’s most adventurous work to date. 
Ed Sheeran explains the importance of the track to the album’s creative direction:
“Sapphire was the first song I finished for Play that made me know where the album was heading. It’s why I finished the recording process in Goa surrounded by some of the best musicians in India. It was an incredible creative process…”
The accompanying music video, shot during Sheeran’s India tour, was directed by Liam and Nic and captures the visual grandeur of the country. Fans can also expect a Punjabi version of “Sapphire” featuring more vocals by Arijit Singh in the coming weeks.
