Ed Sheeran’s “Play (The Remixes)” Brings Six Indian Artists Into the Global Spotlight
In a bold move that bridges global pop and South Asian music, Ed Sheeran’s newly released EP Play (The Remixes) brings together six celebrated Indian artists under one musical umbrella. From Punjabi rap to Tamil fusion and Bollywood-style melodies, this project invites listeners to Celebrate diverse voices, Explore new textures of tone, and Connect across cultures like never before.
A New Chapter in Global Collaboration
Ed Sheeran’s latest release, Play (The Remixes), brings together six Indian artists in a project that celebrates creativity and cultural exchange. Featuring Karan Aujla, Arijit Singh, Jonita Gandhi, Hanumankind, Dhee, and Santhosh Narayanan, the EP blends distinctive regional sounds with Sheeran’s signature songwriting. Each collaboration carries its own identity, yet together they form a shared narrative about connection through music. At Sanskar Savvy, we Celebrate, Explore, Connect! with stories like this that remind us how art continues to build bridges across cultures and generations.
The Vision Behind the EP
The original Play album, released in September 2025, hinted at Sheeran’s growing interest in South Asian sounds. With Play (The Remixes), he dives fully into collaboration, reimagining his tracks with some of the most dynamic voices in Indian music today.
“Making and finishing Play in India was such a fun experience,” Sheeran said in an interview. “I’ve been introduced to all types of music and cultures. I wanted to represent as much as I could on this EP.”
That intention is clear in every song. From Punjabi rap to Tamil fusion, the project celebrates regional influences while staying true to Sheeran’s signature songwriting style.
Track by Track Highlights
1. “Symmetry” ft. Karan Aujla
Karan Aujla brings sharp lyricism and Punjabi swagger to this remix. The song blends Sheeran’s melodies with Punjabi rhythm and language, creating one of the most memorable crossovers on the record.
“Karan is culture, and I love the movement he’s making. He taught me the Punjabi parts on this song in the studio. I feel like this is the beginning of our collaborative journey.” — Ed Sheeran
🎧 Listen on our Spotify Playlist
2. “Heaven” ft. Jonita Gandhi
Jonita Gandhi lends her angelic voice and Hindi vocals to this romantic remix, blending seamlessly with Sheeran’s warm tones. The result is a bilingual track that feels intimate yet universal.
“I think this is the first song of his to feature Hindi lyrics, and I’m so honoured to be the one to do it. It’s a beautiful love song, and I feel so grateful to bring a little bit of my personality and heart into it.” — Jonita Gandhi
“I met Jonita in 2024. I love her voice, the tone, the softness. This was the perfect tune for us to do together.” — Ed Sheeran
🎧 Listen on our Spotify Playlist
3. “Sapphire” ft. Arijit Singh
The much-anticipated collaboration with Arijit Singh is pure emotion. Their voices intertwine effortlessly, and the mix of English and Hindi lyrics makes this track timeless.
“Thank you, Arijit, for your time and talent.” — Ed Sheeran
🎧 Listen on our Spotify Playlist
4. “Don’t Look Down” ft. Hanumankind, Dhee & Santhosh Narayanan
This collaboration brings a distinctly South Indian sound to the EP. Santhosh Narayanan’s production blends beautifully with Dhee’s vocals and Hanumankind’s sharp English-Tamil verses, creating a song that moves between energy and emotion.
“I love Hanumankind. Santhosh is one of the greatest film composers and introduced me to Dhee, who is such an amazing talent and voice. I wanted to represent South India on this EP and the beautiful Tamil language, and they have done such an amazing job in fusing it.” — Ed Sheeran
🎧 Listen on our Spotify Playlist
Why This EP Matters
Play (The Remixes) brings together artists from different regions and languages to create something truly collaborative. Each track carries its own energy and perspective, allowing South Asian artistry to shine on a global stage.
The project highlights India’s growing influence in international music and the creativity of its artists who continue to shape sounds beyond borders. It also reflects Ed Sheeran’s genuine appreciation for cultural exchange and his willingness to share space with voices that represent authenticity and heritage.
For listeners, this EP feels like a celebration of connection. It blends music, language, and emotion in a way that encourages unity and curiosity across cultures.
The Future of Cross-Cultural Sound
Play (The Remixes) opens new possibilities for collaboration between global and South Asian artists. It shows how music can grow when artists share influences and create without boundaries.
Ed Sheeran’s collaboration with Karan Aujla, Arijit Singh, Jonita Gandhi, Hanumankind, Dhee, and Santhosh Narayanan represents a growing movement where language and geography no longer limit creativity. The EP serves as a reminder that global music is evolving through connection and respect for different cultures.
As more artists find inspiration in India’s diverse soundscape, the next era of music will continue to highlight shared creativity and cultural pride. Play (The Remixes) feels like the start of something lasting, where collaboration becomes part of the rhythm itself.
The Takeaway
Play (The Remixes) stands as a celebration of collaboration, creativity, and cultural pride. Every track brings together voices that reflect both individuality and unity, showing how music continues to grow through shared experiences.
The project captures the spirit of connection that defines this generation of artists — one where boundaries fade and authenticity leads. It invites listeners to appreciate the power of language, rhythm, and emotion working together to create something new.At Sanskar Savvy, we believe in the same vision. We continue to Celebrate, Explore, Connect! with the stories and sounds that bring the world a little closer through art.
Celebrate, Explore, Connect!
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