British pop star Ed Sheeran has released a new video that has stirred excitement among fans globally, particularly in South Asia, as it features Punjabi lyrics and scenes from the bustling streets of Mumbai.
The video, shared on Sheeran’s official Instagram account, shows the singer taking a local auto-rickshaw ride through Mumbai while performing his upcoming track Sapphire. The song, infused with Indian musical elements and Punjabi lyrics, is scheduled for release on June 5.
Sheeran, who visited India earlier this year, appears in the clip waving at locals, exchanging high-fives, and singing the vibrant track as he enjoys the street life of the financial capital. The video offers a rare blend of Western pop with South Asian cultural flair, a direction Sheeran seems increasingly interested in exploring.
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“Riding around the streets of India, missing high-fives. Sapphire out June 5th, 8:30am ET / 1:30pm BST / 6pm IST,” read the caption of the post, signaling the song’s global launch timings.
Earlier this month, the Shape of You singer had hinted at a broader cultural exploration in his forthcoming album Play. Taking to Instagram, Sheeran revealed that the project emerged from a deeply emotional phase in his life and represents a turn toward joy, colour, and global inspirations.
“Play was an album that was made as a direct response to the darkest period of my life,” Sheeran wrote. “Coming out of all of that, I just wanted to create joy and technicolour, and explore cultures in the countries I was touring.”
The teaser video has already sparked anticipation among fans and music critics, with many praising the seamless incorporation of Punjabi elements into Sheeran’s distinctive musical style. The collaboration also comes amid a growing trend of Western artists incorporating South Asian influences into their music.
