Ed Sheeran reveals he wanted Jay-Z to feature on "Shape of You"

While speaking to Rolling Stone, Sheeran explained that he did initially want Jay-Z to contribute a verse to his 2017 hit "Shape of You", but the legendary artist turned it down.

Sheeran said: "We were in touch. I sent him the song, and he said, ‘I don’t think the song needs a rap verse.’ He was probably right. He’s got a very, very good ear. He usually gets things right. It was a very natural, respectful pass."

He also discussed fulfilling his current record deal and what it might mean for his future albums, saying, "I’m sort of in flux at the moment because this is my last album with Warner. So I don’t know what I’m doing next. In all honesty, like, yeah, I might put out a record independently. That might be quite fun. Just to try."

Earlier this month Sheeran announced his - (Subtract) album, and last week the lead single "Eyes Closed" was released with a piano version that landed with a live video featuring The National's Aaron Dessner.