Play cover

Play

Ed Sheeran · 2025

41 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock · folk · folk-pop

A reflective blend of soft rock and folk-pop, weaving intimate storytelling with melodic simplicity.

Why listen to this

Best for
steady mid-tempo reflective journey intimate storytelling for quiet moments for relaxed gatherings
Context
By the time Ed Sheeran released 'Play' in September 2025, he was already a household name after his previous album, 'Equals', topped charts worldwide. This album marked a return to his roots, focusing on acoustic elements and personal narratives following a brief hiatus from the limelight.
If you like
alternative rock, folk, folk-pop

Play is an album by Ed Sheeran, released in 2025. A reflective blend of soft rock and folk-pop, weaving intimate storytelling with melodic simplicity. 'Play' debuted at number one on multiple international charts, showcasing Sheeran's enduring popularity. Critics praised the album for its vulnerability and lyrical depth, reinforcing his influence in contemporary pop music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Play sound like?

A reflective blend of soft rock and folk-pop, weaving intimate storytelling with melodic simplicity. Rooted in alternative rock and folk.

What makes Play by Ed Sheeran notable?

'Play' debuted at number one on multiple international charts, showcasing Sheeran's enduring popularity. Critics praised the album for its vulnerability and lyrical depth, reinforcing his influence in contemporary pop music. By the time Ed Sheeran released 'Play' in September 2025, he was already a household name after his previous album, 'Equals', topped charts worldwide. This album marked a return to his roots, focusing on acoustic elements and personal narratives following a brief hiatus from the limelight.

Who is Play for?

Play works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective journey, intimate storytelling for quiet moments and for relaxed gatherings.

How many songs are on Play?

Play has 13 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Tracklist

13 tracks·41:07

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Opening 4:00
  • 2 Sapphire Standout 2:59
  • 3 Azizam 2:42
  • 4 Old Phone Standout 3:41
  • 5 Symmetry 2:48
  • 6 Camera 3:35
  • 7 In Other Words 3:42
  • 8 A Little More 3:12
  • 9 Slowly 3:21
  • 10 Don't Look Down
  • 11 The Vow Standout 3:32
  • 12 For Always 3:27
  • 13 Heaven 4:02

Release Date

September 12, 2025

Genre

alternative rock, folk-pop

More albums in folk-pop

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

41 min 7 sec