Ed Sheeran’s New Deluxe Edition Of ‘Play’ More Than Doubles The Length Of The Original Album

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Upon its initial release on September, Ed Sheeran’s new album Play had a fairly standard 13 songs. With the latest deluxe edition that’s out today (November 28), though, Sheeran has more than doubled that, to 27 total tracks.

Of the 14 bonus tracks, five are brand-new songs. Among the highlights is “Skeletons,” a rhythmic song that sees Sheeran singing navigating conflict in a relationship: “Don’t wanna make an enemy of you / And it breaks my heart / We’re diggin’ up old skeletons at 2 / When our bodies could be / Makin’ the most of our time in this bedroom / Put a pin in this tonight.”

Meanwhile, Sheeran is fresh off an appearance on The Tonight Show, so check out those clips below:

Listen to “Skeletons” above and find the Play (Deluxe) cover art and tracklist below, along with Sheeran’s upcoming tour dates.

Ed Sheeran’s Play (Deluxe) Album Cover Artwork

Gingerbread Man Records/Atlantic Records

Ed Sheeran’s Play (Deluxe) Tracklist

1. “Opening”
2. “Sapphire”
3. “Azizam”
4. “Old Phone”
5. “Symmetry”
6. “Camera”
7. “In Other Words”
8. “A Little More”
9. “Slowly”
10. “Don’t Look Down”
11. “The Vow”
12. “For Always”
13. “Heaven
14. “Problems”
15. “War Game”
16. “Regrets”
17. “Freedom”
18. “Skeletons”
19. “Technicolor”
20. “Satellite
21. “Lights Out”
22. “Fade Out”
23. “Crashing”
24. “Rapture”
25. “Sapphire” Feat. Arijit Singh
26. “Spiral”
27. “I Don’t Wanna Go To Bed”

Ed Sheeran’s 2025 & 2026 Tour Dates: The Loop Tour

12/01/2025 — Paris, France @ Zenith
12/03/2025 — Munich, Germany @ Olympiahalle
12/05/2025 — Coventry, United Kingdom @ Coventry CBS
12/07/2025 — Manchester, United Kingdom @ Co-op Live
12/09/2025 — Dublin, Ireland @ 3Arena
01/16/2026 — Auckland, New Zealand @ Go Media Stadium
01/17/2026 — Auckland, New Zealand @ Go Media Stadium
01/21/2026 — Wellington, New Zealand @ Sky Stadium
01/24/2026 — Christchurch, New Zealand @ Apollo Projects Stadium
01/25/2026 — Christchurch, New Zealand @ Apollo Projects Stadium
01/31/2026 — Perth, Australia @ Optus Stadium
02/01/2026 — Perth, Australia @ Optus Stadium
02/13/2026 — Sydney, Australia @ Accor Stadium
02/14/2026 — Sydney, Australia @ Accor Stadium
02/15/2026 — Sydney, Australia @ Accor Stadium
02/20/2026 — Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium
02/21/2026 — Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium
02/22/2026 — Brisbane, Australia @ Suncorp Stadium
02/26/2026 — Melbourne, Australia @ Marvel Stadium
02/27/2026 — Melbourne, Australia @ Marvel Stadium
02/28/2026 — Melbourne, Australia @ Marvel Stadium
03/05/2026 — Adelaide, Australia @ Adelaide Oval
05/09/2026 — Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic @ Quisqueya Stadium
05/13/2026 — San Juan, Puerto Rico @ Coliseo de Puerto Rico
05/16/2026 — Bogota, Colombia @ Vive Claro
05/20/2026 — Lima, Peru @ Nacional Stadium
05/23/2026 — Quito, Ecuador @ Atahualpa Stadium
05/27/2026 — Guatemala City, Guatemala @ Cementos Progresso Stadium
05/30/2026 — San Jose, Costa Rica @ Nacional Stadium
06/13/2026 — Glendale, AZ @ State Farm Stadium
06/20/2026 — Nashville, TN @ Nissan Stadium
06/25/2026 — Milwaukee, WI @ American Family Insurance Amphitheater | Summerfest
06/27/2026 — Chicago, IL @ Soldier Field
07/04/2026 — Denver, CO @ Empower Field at Mile High
07/18/2026 — Las Vegas, NV @ Allegiant Stadium
07/21/2026 — San Diego, CA @ Petco Park
07/25/2026 — Santa Clara, CA @ Levi’s® Stadium
08/01/2026 — Seattle, WA @ Lumen Field
08/08/2026 — Los Angeles, CA @ SoFi Stadium
08/15/2026 — Minneapolis, MN @ U.S. Bank Stadium
08/20/2026 — Toronto, ON @ Rogers Centre
08/21/2026 — Toronto, ON @ Rogers Centre
08/22/2026 — Toronto, ON @ Rogers Centre
08/29/2026 — Detroit, MI @ Ford Field
09/04/2026 — East Rutherford, NJ @ MetLife Stadium
09/05/2026 — East Rutherford, NJ @ MetLife Stadium
09/19/2026 — Philadelphia, PA @ Lincoln Financial Field
09/25/2026 — Foxborough, MA @ Gillette Stadium
09/26/2026 — Foxborough, MA @ Gillette Stadium
10/03/2026 — Atlanta, GA @ Mercedes-Benz Stadium
10/10/2026 — Indianapolis, IN @ Lucas Oil Stadium
10/17/2026 — Charlotte, NC @ Bank of America Stadium
10/24/2026 — Arlington, TX @ AT&T Stadium
10/29/2026 — Hollywood, FL @ Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
10/30/2026 — Hollywood, FL @ Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
11/07/2026 — Tampa, FL @ Raymond James Stadium

Play (Deluxe) is out now via Gingerbread Man Records/Atlantic Records. Find more information here.



source https://uproxx.com/music/ed-sheeran-play-deluxe-skeletons/

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Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution

Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution and What Listeners Look For Hip hop is more than just a genre of music; it is a cultural movement that has deeply influenced the world for over four decades. Originating in the South Bronx during the 1970s, hip hop was birthed from the creative expression of marginalized communities. What started as a fusion of DJing, breakdancing, graffiti art and MCing (rapping) quickly became a global phenomenon. Over the years, hip hop has expanded its reach, influencing various aspects of society, from fashion and language to politics and social movements. But what exactly do listeners seek when they tune in to their favorite hip hop tracks? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music At its core, hip hop music is built on rhythm and lyricism. Early pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. laid the foundation for what we now recognize as hip hop. They mixed disco, funk, and soul beats with rhythmic rapping to create a unique sound. Through the 1980s and 1990s, iconic artists such as Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z further shaped the genre, adding deeper narratives that explored social issues, struggles, and triumphs.
In the 2000s, hip hop saw its golden age evolve into new sub-genres, from Southern hip hop (e.g., OutKast and Lil Wayne) to the rise of trap music (led by artists like Future, Gucci Mane, and Migos). Today, artists continue to experiment with hybrid sounds, blending trap with pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a more diverse landscape for the genre.

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music While the genre has evolved, the heart of hip hop music still beats with certain core elements that listeners continue to seek. Here’s what attracts audiences to hip hop music:

1. Authenticity

One of the most important qualities of hip hop is its authenticity. Listeners are drawn to artists who stay true to themselves, their roots, and their experiences. Whether an artist is rapping about overcoming hardship, life in the streets, or personal triumphs, their genuineness resonates with fans. Authenticity gives hip hop its raw edge, connecting the artist's voice with listeners on a deeply personal level.

2. Lyricism and Wordplay

Hip hop has always been a platform for storytelling, and the craft of lyricism is highly valued. Fans look for clever wordplay, metaphors, punchlines, and deep storytelling in their favorite tracks. Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas are revered for their intricate lyricism and ability to convey powerful messages through their words. A song with sharp bars, vivid imagery, and emotional depth can elevate a listener’s connection to the music.

3. Beat and Production Quality

The beat is often the first thing people notice in a hip hop song. A catchy, hard-hitting beat can make or break a track, and producers play an integral role in shaping the sound of hip hop music. Producers like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Metro Boomin have become household names for their distinctive production styles. From boom-bap beats to trap drums, the instrumental elements are essential in drawing listeners into the rhythm and groove of the song.

4. Innovation and Evolution

Hip hop is known for its constant evolution. Fans of the genre are often on the lookout for artists who push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. This spirit of innovation keeps the genre fresh and exciting. From the rise of auto-tune with artists like T-Pain to the blend of electronic and rap seen with artists like Travis Scott, listeners are eager for new music that challenges the traditional limits of hip hop.

5. Vibe and Energy

Hip hop isn’t just about the lyrics or the beat—it’s also about the energy the music brings. Whether it’s a party anthem, an introspective track, or a political statement, the vibe and energy of a song play a crucial role in how it resonates with fans. Artists like Drake, Cardi B, and Lil Uzi Vert have mastered the art of creating tracks that make listeners feel a certain way, whether it’s hyped up, laid back, or reflective.

6. Relatability and Emotional Connection

Hip hop has always been an outlet for self-expression and commentary on life experiences. Because of this, listeners often gravitate toward songs that reflect their own lives, struggles, and aspirations. Whether it’s a song about the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the celebration of personal success, or the experience of love and heartbreak, hip hop has the unique ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Fans often seek songs that speak to their individual journeys and provide comfort, validation, or empowerment.

The Global Reach of Hip Hop

What was once confined to the streets of New York City has now become a global cultural force. From Tokyo to Paris, hip hop has spread across continents, influencing artists and listeners worldwide. In recent years, artists from outside the U.S. have brought their own cultural influences to the genre, blending hip hop with local sounds, languages, and traditions. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its universal themes of struggle, self-expression, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Hip hop music is an ever-evolving cultural powerhouse that has grown from a localized subculture into a global sensation. The authenticity, lyricism, production quality, innovation, energy, and emotional depth are the main ingredients that attract listeners to hip hop. While the genre continues to change, its core values remain consistent—offering a space for self-expression, storytelling, and connection. As hip hop continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a major force in shaping the future of music. Whether you’re a fan of classic boom-bap or modern trap, hip hop’s diverse range offers something for everyone, proving that its cultural impact is here to stay.