Ed Sheeran Discusses Friendship with Taylor Swift and Super Bowl Halftime Show Aspirations

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift: A Decade of Friendship
4. The Super Bowl Halftime Show: A Distant Dream?
5. Reflections on the Industry
6. The Interview's Context: Legal Woes and Nostalgia
7. Future Prospects: What Lies Ahead?
8. Conclusion
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Ed Sheeran reflects on his friendship with Taylor Swift and how they navigated their early careers together.
• The singer expresses doubts about headlining the Super Bowl Halftime Show, discussing the challenges of his performance style.
• His recollections illustrate a deep connection with Swift, offering insights into their longstanding friendship.

Introduction

When Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift first shared the stage in 2013, few could anticipate the meteoric rise both artists would soon experience. Sheeran, once the opening act for Swift’s global tour, has since become one of the world’s most recognized pop icons. Fast forward to April 2025, during a revealing episode of the podcast Call Her Daddy, Sheeran spoke openly about his cherished friendship with Swift and hesitations about taking the stage at one of America’s most watched events—the Super Bowl Halftime Show.

What ensued from this discussion not only illustrates the changing dynamics in the pop music landscape but also highlights Sheeran’s personal reflections on where he fits within it.

Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift: A Decade of Friendship

Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift's story began in the early 2010s when the two young artists were navigating the complexities of fame. Touring together during Swift’s Red album era, Sheeran opened for Swift during the North American leg of her tour, setting the stage for a friendship that blossomed amidst the rigorous demands of the music industry.

“There was this friendship where we could share the highs and lows together,” Sheeran recounted during his podcast interview. They spent countless hours flying to and from gigs, creating shared experiences that contributed heavily to their artistic development. Sheeran's candid reminiscences give fans a glimpse into this nurturing bond.

Reflecting on their early years together, Sheeran notes how they often leaned on one another during the stresses of touring and album promotions. He shared fond memories of late-night conversations and collaborative song-writing sessions, revealing the genuine care they hold for each other: “I literally spent almost every single day with her for about six months, so I think that period of time was my favorite.”

The Super Bowl Halftime Show: A Distant Dream?

Despite his success, Sheeran is clear on one thing—headlining the Super Bowl Halftime Show isn’t a career goal. When prompted about performing at this quintessential American event, he remarked, “I don’t think English artists … I mean, there are some that have the pizazz of Super Bowl, fireworks, dancers, blah, blah, blah, but me going up there and being like, here’s ‘The A Team’ and here’s ‘Perfect,’ no one wants to see that.”

Sheeran’s humor is evident in his response, but it underscores a serious point about performer suitability to the event's needs. The Super Bowl Halftime Show traditionally favors high-energy performances with elaborate staging—something Sheeran feels his music doesn’t align with. His stripped-down, loop pedal-driven style, he argues, wouldn’t translate well to the massive scale and electric atmosphere of a Super Bowl performance.

A Collaboration Instead?

Interestingly, Sheeran expressed that he might consider taking the stage alongside another artist—if the opportunity arose in a supporting capacity. “If it was Beyoncé’s show, and she had all the bells and whistles, and then there was a moment where we sang ‘Perfect’ together, that makes sense to me.” He sees himself fitting more as a collaborative feature in a larger spectacle, rather than the main act.

This perspective is worth examining in light of past headliners such as The Weeknd and Usher, both of whom brought significant dimension to their shows through collaboration and theatrical strategies.

Reflections on the Industry

Sheeran's hesitance to participate in what he describes as a high-octane performance reflects a broader conversation about the evolving landscape of the music industry and live performances. With musical tastes shifting and trends rapidly changing, many artists are grappling with their identities and how they fit into current sports-centric cultural phenomena.

For Sheeran, whose strengths lie in lyrical storytelling and heartfelt ballads, the dated notion of rock-star bravado clashes with the essence of his artistry—one that many fans adore for its honesty and relatability.

The Interview's Context: Legal Woes and Nostalgia

Alongside his reflections on performance, Sheeran opened up about his ongoing legal battles concerning copyright issues—a topic that has embroiled many musicians in recent years. While discussing this aspect, he nostalgically revisited the friendship he shares with Swift, recalling their early text exchanges while preparing his defense. It appears that even amidst the pressures of legal scrutiny, there remains a solace in the memories of friendship forged in the crucible of their joint aspirations.

“This was really nostalgic going through,” he noted of their past communications. Sheeran described their close bond and how it has morphed into a meaningful adult friendship, marked by substantial periods of separation but with the comfort of knowing they share a lasting connection.

Future Prospects: What Lies Ahead?

As Sheeran moves forward, fans are left pondering what his next steps may involve. While he remains unfazed by traditional markers of success—such as high-profile performances—he continues to explore creative collaborations and musical innovation.

The Impact of Technology on Performance

The music industry has witnessed significant shifts due to advancements in technology, which have altered how artists create and connect with their audience. For instance, the loop pedal—a hallmark of Sheeran's signature sound—enables him to craft intricate musical layers live during performances. However, this same technique presents challenges in high-energy arenas where quick transitions and engaging visual elements are paramount.

In discussing the practicality of his style in relation to the Super Bowl, Sheeran highlighted a core aspect of modern music performance—the need to balance artistry with spectacle. His unique method may resonate with smaller, intimate concert settings, making his gradual ascent to a collaborative role at major events all the more compelling.

Conclusion

As Ed Sheeran continues to chart his course through an evolving music landscape, the artist's reflections provide valuable insights into the interplay of friendship, artistic identity, and media spectacle. His candid thoughts about Taylor Swift, the Super Bowl, and the music industry as a whole shed light on the intersection of personal and professional life within the realm of entertainment.

In an industry where fast-paced change often leaves artists in the dust, Sheeran’s ability to remain grounded—prioritizing genuine connections over hype—may be his greatest strength. As fans, we can only anticipate the next chapter in his already storied career.

FAQ

Has Ed Sheeran been asked to perform at the Super Bowl?

Yes, there was a conversation about 10 years ago regarding a potential performance, but Sheeran does not presently see himself headlining the event.

Why does Sheeran feel he is not suited for the Super Bowl?

Sheeran feels that his style—centered around intimate storytelling with a loop pedal—does not fit the high-energy demands of the Super Bowl Halftime Show, which typically features flashy performances.

What is the nature of Ed Sheeran's friendship with Taylor Swift?

Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift have maintained a close friendship since touring together in 2013. They have collaborated on multiple songs and often share personal insights into each other's lives.

How does Sheeran view collaborations during major performances?

Sheeran expressed that he would consider joining another artist on stage, particularly in a supportive role, rather than headlining on his own.

What are some recent challenges Sheeran has faced?

Sheeran is currently involved in a legal battle over copyright issues, which has led him to reflect on his professional experiences and friendships.