When Ed Sheeran released Sapphire on 5 June 2025, the song captured the attention of global listeners with its fusion of English, Hindi, and Punjabi lyrics. What stood out to Indian fans, in particular, was the unmistakable voice of Arijit Singh. His signature vocals echo in the bridge, enhancing the emotional tone of the track. Yet, his name is nowhere to be found in the “featuring” credits of the song on Spotify, Apple Music, or even YouTube.
This omission has sparked curiosity, confusion, and quite a few debates online. Why would one of India’s most iconic singers not be credited up front in such a high-profile collaboration?
Understanding the Difference Between ‘Featuring’ and ‘Songwriting’
First, it is important to differentiate between performance credits and songwriting credits. Arijit Singh is officially listed as one of the songwriters on Sapphire. Alongside Ed Sheeran, Johnny McDaid, Ilya Salmanzadeh, and Savan Kotecha, Arijit has contributed to the creation of the track’s lyrics and melody.
However, he is not listed as a featured artist, which is typically how platforms highlight performers who are not the lead singer. This means Arijit’s name does not appear on the track page, title bar, or the artist lineup. His involvement exists in the metadata, but not in the public-facing song credit.
Ed Sheeran’s Consistent Approach to Features
Ed Sheeran has a history of avoiding “feat.” labels on his album tracks, even when collaborating with prominent names. On several previous albums, Ed has kept the focus on himself as a solo artist, placing featured artists in the background unless the track is part of a remix or a collaborative project like No.6 Collaborations Project.
This is believed to be a stylistic decision, aimed at creating a cohesive album experience. Including different artists in every track title could distract from the narrative he wants to build. By keeping all tracks under his own name, Ed ensures that the body of work feels unified.
Therefore, Arijit not being tagged as a featured artist on Sapphire is not necessarily a slight. It aligns with Ed’s long-established creative model.
Legal Recognition Versus Public Recognition
Despite the lack of visible credit in the title, Arijit Singh is legally and officially recognised for his contribution to Sapphire. He is credited as a songwriter and as a performer, which means he is eligible for royalties based on the song’s commercial success.
However, this legal acknowledgement does not automatically translate to visible recognition for the public. Streaming platforms often prioritise the lead artist and only display additional contributors when specifically tagged. Since Arijit is not listed as a “featuring” artist, many listeners may remain unaware of his participation unless they explore the detailed credits.
Arijit’s Presence Is Unmistakable in the Song and Video
Whether or not his name appears in the title, Arijit’s presence in Sapphire is undeniable. His vocals dominate the Punjabi bridge of the song and elevate the track’s cultural and emotional resonance. Furthermore, Arijit appears in the official music video, sharing screen space with Ed Sheeran in scenes shot across Indian landscapes.
This suggests that Arijit’s role is not hidden or minor. It is celebrated through the visuals and musical composition, even if not acknowledged in the headline credits.
Possibility of a Punjabi Version with Full Credit
There have been strong hints and fan speculation about a full Punjabi version of Sapphire being released in the future. If such a version is officially released, it would be natural and appropriate to list Arijit Singh as a featured artist.
This rollout strategy makes marketing sense. The original version introduces the song globally through Ed Sheeran’s platform. A regionalised version, possibly targeted at Indian and South Asian listeners, could highlight Arijit’s contribution more prominently.
A Collaboration Built on Mutual Respect
Multiple reports have indicated that Ed Sheeran and Arijit Singh share more than just a professional partnership. Their collaboration began with Ed’s admiration for Arijit’s work, particularly his performance in Tum Hi Ho. It is said that they developed a warm working relationship, exchanging musical ideas and even spending time together in India to explore local sounds.
This background makes it clear that Arijit’s omission from the “featuring” label is not a sign of disrespect or sidelining. Rather, it appears to be a strategic or stylistic choice, likely made with mutual agreement.
While the absence of Arijit Singh’s name from the streaming title of Sapphire may appear puzzling at first, it becomes clearer when viewed in the context of Ed Sheeran’s creative choices and the music industry’s crediting structures. Arijit’s contribution is not just present but pivotal. His voice carries a significant portion of the song’s cultural and emotional weight, even without a headline credit.
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More importantly, his official credit in songwriting and visual presence in the video confirm that this was a respectful and collaborative effort between two artists who admire each other. A future Punjabi version could finally bring the “featuring Arijit Singh” label that fans are hoping for, but in the meantime, the music speaks for itself. If you have listened to Sapphire, you have heard Arijit Singh, whether or not his name appears on your screen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Arijit Singh actually involved in the song Sapphire?
Yes, Arijit Singh is involved as both a vocalist and a co-writer. His vocals are clearly heard during the Punjabi section of the track, and he appears in the official music video.
2. Why is Arijit not credited as a featured artist?
This is consistent with Ed Sheeran’s approach to album releases. He often does not list collaborators as “featured” artists in the track titles to maintain a cohesive album format.
3. Will Arijit Singh be credited in future versions of the song?
It is likely. There is speculation that a full Punjabi version will be released in which Arijit Singh may be credited officially as a featured artist.
4. Does Arijit Singh receive royalties for the song?
Yes. As a co-writer and performer, Arijit Singh is legally entitled to royalties. He is credited in the publishing and songwriting metadata of the track.
5. Was this a deliberate move to sideline Arijit Singh?
No. Available reports and fan interpretations suggest this was a mutual and stylistic decision. Arijit Singh is visibly and audibly present in the track and the music video, indicating a respectful and genuine collaboration.
