Ed Sheeran Exits Warner Music Group After 15 Years, Expresses Gratitude for Collaborative Success

Ed Sheeran has officially announced his departure from Warner Music Group after a remarkable 15-year tenure with the label. The announcement was made on May 22, 2026, through a letter sent to his fans via email. In his statement, Sheeran conveyed that his exit was amicable, expressing deep appreciation for the collaborative achievements during his time with the label.

A Legacy of Success

Sheeran leaves Warner Music Group as one of the most successful artists of the past decade and a half. His career boasts eight top-five albums on the Billboard 200, including four that reached No. 1. Additionally, he has charted 60 songs on the Billboard Hot 100, with nine making it to the top 10 and two reaching No. 1. Notably, his hit single “Shape of You” dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 weeks in 2017, ultimately spending 59 weeks on the chart. Another of his singles, “Perfect,” also achieved No. 1 status.

His 2017 album, ÷ (Divide), debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, where it remained for two weeks. Other No. 1 albums in his discography include 2014’s x, 2019’s No. 6 Collaborations Project, and 2021’s =. According to Luminate, Sheeran has accumulated 25.9 million equivalent album units in the United States since his debut in 2011, alongside over 32 billion streams and 5.8 million album sales.

Warner Music Group’s Response

Warner Music Group will retain Sheeran’s catalog of hits and holds long-term licenses for his two most recent albums, 2023’s Autumn Variations and 2025’s Play, both released under his own label, Gingerbread Man, in collaboration with Atlantic Records. The company expressed pride in having supported Sheeran throughout his career and gratitude for their ongoing partnership. They emphasized their commitment to stewarding his iconic catalog into the future, ensuring that his music continues to resonate globally.

Reflections on His Journey

In his letter, Sheeran reflected on his journey with Warner Music Group, stating that he decided to leave Asylum/Warner last month. He emphasized that his departure is not a typical case of a disgruntled artist leaving a label. Instead, he described it as a natural evolution from a teenager with different priorities to a father who feels the need for a shift in his professional life. Sheeran expressed his love and gratitude for his time at the label, highlighting the incredible journey they shared.

Changes in Leadership at Atlantic Records

Sheeran’s career has been closely linked with Ed Howard, a longtime A&R executive at Asylum/Atlantic U.K., since he signed with the label in 2011. Howard became co-president of Atlantic U.K. in 2019. However, both Howard and other key figures at Atlantic Records, including Julie Greenwald and Max Lousada, exited the company in 2024 to establish their own label under Sony Music Group. The new leadership at Atlantic, under chairman and CEO Elliot Grainge, has since increased the label’s market share, making it the second-largest in the U.S. recorded music industry as of the first quarter of 2026.

Sheeran’s Personal Note to Fans

In his letter, Sheeran shared personal anecdotes about his early days in the music industry, recalling how he met Ed Howard at a show in Notting Hill when he was just 18. He described the supportive environment created by Howard and Ben Cook, who was running Asylum at the time. Sheeran expressed his deep affection for the people who helped him along the way, stating that he signed with the label instantly when the opportunity arose.

He acknowledged the significant changes in his life over the past 15 years and the need for professional evolution. Sheeran reaffirmed his identity as a singer-songwriter who began performing in pubs, contrasting it with his current status as a global pop star. He expressed excitement for the future while maintaining a connection to his roots.

Conclusion

Ed Sheeran’s departure from Warner Music Group marks the end of a significant chapter in his career. His legacy at the label is characterized by immense success and collaboration. As he embarks on a new journey, Sheeran’s gratitude for his past experiences remains evident.

As reported by www.billboard.com.

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Published on 2026-05-22 19:39:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk