Los Angeles, California - Pop star Ed Sheeran has ended his long-standing partnership with his record label, Warner Music, after 15 years. What's the reason behind the drastic step?
For fans of the 35-year-old, the news came out of the blue last week, with Sheeran emphasizing that the split was not a public dispute.
"This isn't a 'disgruntled artist leaves record label' type situation," Daily Mail quoted the musician as saying.
In the same breath, Sheeran explained to his fans that his life had turned 180 degrees since the start of his contract in 2011.
"This is a boy who started as a teenager on the company with different priorities, to the father-of-two man who exists now, who feels like he needs a shift and change," he added.
While, on the outside, the professional separation appeared quite harmonious, a completely different picture emerged behind the scenes, as an insider dished to the outlet.
Under Aaron Bay-Schuck's new leadership, the music company has plunged into chaos, with some former employees describing the London office as a "sad reflection of what it once was."
Another crucial problem for Sheeran's label was that important decisions were only made in Los Angeles – not in the UK.
Ed Sheeran seeks more control over his music
According to the secret source, the 35-year-old was particularly disappointed about the dismissal of several long-standing Warner managers with whom he had worked closely.
Where the singer's journey will now take him is still up in the air. According to music insiders, Sheeran could be drawn to the new label 26.2.
As the Daily Mail learned from an insider, Sheeran wants to have "more control" over his career in the future.
After the chaotic years together, the Brit now needs something new.
"It's time for a refresh and a reset with people who understand him rather than people sitting on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean," the tipster added.