He has openly discussed his mental health challenges, including feelings of suicidal ideation after significant losses.

Sheeran's Instagram account, @teddysoldphone, showcases old photos, texts, and lyrics from a mobile phone he stopped using a decade ago, including memories with celebrities.

Accompanying the album announcement, the new single 'Old Phone' was released on May 1, 2025, co-produced by Ilya Salmanzadeh and Blake Slatkin.

Ed Sheeran recently confirmed the creation of his new album 'Play' during an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

The album, set to be released through Gingerbread Records/Atlantic Records, features 13 tracks and aims to create joy while exploring different cultures.

In a statement, Sheeran described 'Play' as a response to the darkest periods of his life, emphasizing themes of nostalgia, youth, and love.

The production of 'Old Phone' continues Sheeran's collaboration with top talent, enhancing his signature sound.

Fans can listen to 'Old Phone' through a link provided in the show notes, generating excitement for the upcoming album.

The album reflects Sheeran's personal struggles, including the death of his friend Jamal Edwards and his wife Cherry's health issues during her pregnancy.

Throughout his career, Sheeran has collaborated with various artists, including African singers Fireboy DML and Burna Boy, and has performed extensively in Asia.

In anticipation of the album, a ranking of his 11 best songs has been compiled, showcasing his evolution as an artist over the past 15 years.

The album's mix of ballads and acoustic-driven songs reinforces Sheeran's status as a leading singer-songwriter of his generation.