Ed Sheeran releases a powerful new video for "Old Phone," ahead of his upcoming album Play. Discover how memories, fans, and music come together in this heartfelt tribute.
Global superstar Ed Sheeran is tugging at heartstrings once again with the release of the emotional music video for his new single, “Old Phone.” The video, directed by longtime collaborator Emil Nava, serves as the second official glimpse into Sheeran’s upcoming album Play, which is set to arrive on September 12 via Gingerbread Man Records/Atlantic Records. The album is already available for pre-save, adding to the mounting anticipation surrounding its release.
Following the tender tones of his first single “Azizam,” “Old Phone” builds on Sheeran’s reputation for crafting deeply personal narratives. In the video’s opening, the artist offers a heartfelt reflection on the inspiration behind the track: the rediscovery of a forgotten mobile phone filled with messages and photos from loved ones no longer around. It’s a moving concept that resonates with anyone who has ever stumbled upon an unexpected piece of their past.
A pub built on memories: The creation of the Old Phone experience
Rather than simply releasing a video, Sheeran envisioned an immersive experience. He constructed the Old Phone Pub in Ipswich, Massachusetts — a physical space designed to celebrate memory and connection. As Sheeran himself explains, “I thought about building a pub somewhere and performing for my fans. I told them: if you want to come, go to your old phone and find a message or video that really means something to you.”
The video elegantly captures the construction of the pub, juxtaposed with Sheeran’s own nostalgic moments. Viewers watch him rehearse, engage with locals, and listen to deeply personal fan stories that were inspired by their old phone memories. Whether it’s a clip of two daughters playing, a snowy afternoon shared with friends, or a cherished dance with a late grandmother, each moment underscores the emotional weight carried by digital memories.
The experience culminates in an intimate live performance inside the pub, showcasing Sheeran’s signature warmth and connection with his audience. This isn’t just a music video — it’s a living tribute to memory, community, and the bonds forged through music.
A social media campaign rooted in nostalgia
Ahead of the song’s official release, Sheeran launched a unique Instagram account — @teddysoldphone — filled with unseen snapshots from his own retired phone, which he stopped using in 2015. The feed reads like a digital time capsule, giving fans a rare glimpse into his personal past.
He’s also been teasing the track in recent weeks through a variety of surprise performances. Sheeran first previewed “Old Phone” in a spontaneous acoustic session on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and later included it in his Coachella set. Most recently, he shared a soulful duet of the song with Noah Kahan at Santa’s Pub in Nashville, further reinforcing the song’s communal essence.
These creative promotional choices offer more than just marketing flair — they reinforce Sheeran’s enduring belief in the power of storytelling through music. As Billboard notes, Sheeran’s ability to merge universal emotion with individual stories has made him one of the most relatable artists of his generation.
What can fans expect from the album Play?
With “Old Phone” and “Azizam” already striking a chord with listeners, expectations are sky-high for Play, Ed Sheeran’s next full-length project. The album appears to mark a return to the introspective, acoustic-driven style that first brought him global recognition — but with the added depth of a seasoned artist who’s seen and felt much more.
Play will likely continue to explore themes of memory, love, loss, and human connection — topics Sheeran has mastered over the years. While no full tracklist has been revealed yet, fans can be sure that if the first two singles are any indication, this album will be a deeply emotional journey.
Will Play be Sheeran’s most personal album yet? With “Old Phone” setting such an evocative tone, all signs point to yes. The music video, fan engagement, and stripped-back storytelling suggest that Ed Sheeran is digging even deeper into the emotional core that has always defined his music.
