Ed Sheeran has declared Arijit Singh as the "best singer in the world" following their recent collaboration on the song 'Sapphire'. This praise highlights a burgeoning mutual admiration between the two artists and marks a significant moment in cross-cultural musical collaboration.

Sheeran's appreciation for Singh's talent isn't new. In a recent social media post, Sheeran lauded Singh's "voice, tone, flow and rhythm". He revealed that he listens to their version of "Sapphire" every morning with his daughters. Sheeran's admiration extends beyond Singh's vocal abilities, encompassing his overall musicianship and artistry.

The collaboration on "Sapphire" involved a special version of the song, featuring Arijit Singh performing in Hindi and Punjabi, a first for Sheeran. The track was recorded in Goa and incorporates South Asian percussion. The original and special renditions were produced by Ilya Salmanzadeh, Johnny McDaid, and Savan Kotecha.

Sheeran's trip to India to work with Singh was a significant experience for him. He described his 24-hour visit to Singh's hometown, Jiaganj Azimganj in West Bengal, as "one of the most amazing days" in his musical career. Sheeran recounted how Arijit took him on a boat ride, they shared meals and coffee, and then worked together in the studio. During this visit, Singh taught Sheeran to sing in Punjabi and play the sitar. Sheeran even shared a lighthearted anecdote about riding on the back of Arijit's scooter with his dad following on another scooter with Arijit's security.

This collaboration is not just a one-off event. Sheeran has hinted at further collaborations with Singh in his upcoming album "Play," scheduled for release on September 12, 2025. This has generated considerable excitement among fans, with many expressing their anticipation for more music from the two artists.

The blending of Sheeran's globally recognized pop sensibilities with Singh's Indian musical expertise is seen as a unique moment. It also highlights the increasing globalization of music and the breaking down of cultural barriers in the industry. Sheeran's open admiration for Arijit Singh is a testament to the power of music to connect people across different backgrounds and cultures.