Ed Sheeran Embraces Irish Roots, Balances Fame, and Prepares New Album 'Play'
June 10, 2025
Ed Sheeran, who spent his childhood holidays in Ireland and has a large Irish family, credits these experiences for shaping his cultural identity.
During his appearance on The Louis Theroux Podcast, he referred to Ireland as his 'second home musically' and emphasized that being born in Britain does not limit one's cultural identification.
His connection to Irish music began in 2004 when he attended a Damien Rice concert at Whelan’s in Dublin, which he describes as a pivotal moment in his musical journey.
Sheeran's songs, including 'Galway Girl' and 'Nancy Mulligan,' released in 2017, reflect his Irish background.
While discussing fame, Sheeran expressed sensitivity regarding paparazzi taking pictures of his children, highlighting a specific incident involving a photo of his newborn daughter taken without consent.
Reflecting on his career, Sheeran feels he peaked with his album 'Divide' and is now content with a more balanced life, despite uncertainty about regaining that level of fame.
He finds the process of releasing music stressful, preferring the joy of writing and performing over the pressures of public reception.
His upcoming eighth studio album, titled 'Play,' is set to be released on September 12, 2025, as part of a new series of five albums he is working on.
Recently, Sheeran filmed the music video for his new song 'Old Phone' at a pop-up Irish pub in Boston, celebrating memories and engaging with his fans.
Despite his fame, Sheeran revealed he does not own a private jet and prefers to travel by train for environmental reasons.
He travels primarily on commercial flights due to environmental concerns, although he occasionally uses private jets during intense promotional periods.
In 2022, Sheeran received the Freedom of the City of London for his contributions and work with the London Irish Centre, where he has been a patron since 2018.
Summary based on 20 sources
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Sources

BBC News • Jun 10, 2025
Ed Sheeran says he classes his culture as Irish
BBC News • Jun 10, 2025
Ed Sheeran says he classes his culture as Irish
The Telegraph • Jun 10, 2025
Ed Sheeran: I identify as culturally Irish despite being born in England
RTÉ • Jun 10, 2025
Ed Sheeran says he identifies culturally as Irish