Ed Sheeran unveiled his highly anticipated new album “Play” today, marking a bold new chapter for the Grammy-winning artist as he moves beyond his acclaimed Mathematics series into uncharted creative territory for 2025.
The album release coincides with the debut of the official music video for lead single “Camera,” featuring “Bridgerton” star Phoebe Dynevor in a romantic visual narrative that captures the early stages of a relationship.
“Play” represents Sheeran’s most adventurous work to date, drawing inspiration from his exposure to Indian and Persian musical cultures and their surprising connections to the Irish folk traditions of his youth. The album explores what Sheeran describes as a “borderless musical language,” incorporating shared scales, rhythms, and melodies that give the collection a distinctive edge.
“An artist who is constantly evolving, Sheeran has collaborated with producers and musicians from across the globe while diving deeper into the timeless sounds that have made him one of the world’s best-loved pop artists,” according to his representatives.
The standout track “Camera,” inspired by Sheeran’s wife Cherry, showcases his continued mastery of balladry and lyrical depth. The song was co-produced by industry heavyweights ILYA (known for work with Ariana Grande and Camila Cabello), Andrew Watt (Post Malone), and Louis Bell (Justin Bieber).
Directed by longtime collaborator Emil Nava, the music video was shot entirely on iPhone from the characters’ perspectives, following Sheeran and Dynevor as they explore Croatia’s picturesque Old Town, cruise on a moped, bar-hop through the night, and even share the stage at one of Sheeran’s stadium shows.
Fans won’t have to wait long to hear the new material performed live. Tonight at 17:00 (BST), Sheeran will make history with the first-ever livestreamed NPR Tiny Desk concert of this scale, performing a selection of new songs on his signature loop station from NPR’s offices. Tune in here.
The performance promises to showcase both familiar and new elements of Sheeran’s artistry, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into the “exciting bold, pop-driven sound that feels transformative” that defines his latest work.
The album and music video are available now on all major streaming platforms.
