British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran continues to shape his career with creativity and long-term vision. Just days after releasing his highly anticipated album Play, the artist revealed that he has nearly completed another project: Rewind. However, despite being close to finished, the record is not expected to be released until 2027.
From Play to Rewind: Two Albums in Parallel
Play, officially released on September 12, 2025, showcases a vibrant and energetic side of Sheeran, influenced in part by his time in Goa, India, where he explored new sounds and inspirations.
At the same time that he was shaping Play, Sheeran was also working on Rewind, a project with a much more nostalgic and introspective tone. According to the singer, the album is only about two months away from being “fully locked.” Still, he has chosen to delay its release until 2027, giving each work its own space and significance.
A New Conceptual Pentalogy
With Play and Rewind, Sheeran has launched a new five-part project inspired by the classic playback buttons: Play, Pause, Rewind, Fast-Forward, and Stop. This approach reflects Sheeran’s penchant for structuring his catalog around universal symbols, as he previously did with his mathematical-themed albums (+, x, ÷, =, –).
What to Expect from Rewind
While Play conveys positivity and brightness, Rewind is expected to deliver a more emotional, nostalgic, and melancholic atmosphere. The contrast between the two records will highlight Sheeran’s versatility and his ability to capture different moods within a short creative span.
Though its release is still a long way off, anticipation is already building among fans and within the industry. Speculation has begun about the sound, themes, and potential singles that Rewind may bring.
An Artist Who Plans Ahead
Ed Sheeran’s vision extends beyond the present. Alongside this pentalogy, he has revealed that he has planned a posthumous album titled Eject, which is already included in his will. This project would feature recordings spanning various stages of his life and career, intended to be shared with fans after his passing.
A Legacy in the Making
With Play freshly released and Rewind nearly complete, Sheeran proves that his creativity is at its peak. His ability to plan and execute long-term projects shows not only his status as one of the most successful artists of the last decade but also as one of the most strategic and visionary figures in modern music.
The future is already mapped out for Ed Sheeran, and although fans will have to wait until 2027 for Rewind, all signs suggest it will be worth it.
