**Ed Sheeran Delights Fans with Unexpected Performance at BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend in Liverpool**
Music enthusiasts in Liverpool were left in awe after British superstar Ed Sheeran delivered a surprise live set during BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend, held at Sefton Park. The artist’s unannounced appearance on Saturday afternoon electrified the New Music Stage, just weeks before he is set to headline the iconic Glastonbury Festival. The special performance rekindled the thrill of live music for fans lucky enough to witness the event.
Known for his signature blend of heartfelt songwriting and innovative live technique, Sheeran chose a minimalist approach for this unexpected show, opting to build his songs in real time using a loop station. Rather than relying on a pre-recorded backing track, Sheeran layered multiple instrumental and vocal loops, showcasing both his technical skill and musical creativity.
The setlist kicked off with the anthemic ‘Castle On The Hill’, sparking an immediate response from an audience who had not anticipated the star’s appearance. Fans were treated to a run-through of Sheeran’s most popular tracks, including chart-toppers like ‘Perfect’, ‘The A Team’, and the ever-popular ‘Shape Of You’. His performance drew enthusiastic cheers, as he combined familiar melodies with the freshness of live creation.
Speaking to the crowd gathered at Sefton Park, Sheeran expressed his appreciation for those who had taken a chance on the secret performance: “I’m glad you turned up. I know this was a secret.” His light-hearted banter continued as he quipped, “I’m gonna play some songs that hopefully you know. If you don’t know them, it’s going to be a long hour for you.” This playful interaction added a touch of intimacy to an already special afternoon.
One of the defining elements of the performance was its commitment to authenticity. Sheeran made it clear there would be no studio trickery: “Everything you hear today is completely live. There’s no backing track whatsoever.” He went on to explain the process to an attentive crowd: “It’s made live on the spot – I control it all with my feet – and at the end it’s deleted. It won’t be the same at the next show.” For many, it was a rare insight into the technical innovation behind his performances.
During his latest song ‘Azizam’, Sheeran encountered a brief technical hiccup, needing to restart a loop. Showing his relaxed stage presence, he reassured fans: “I’m going to have to do this again. This is how you know it’s live. One more time.” The moment highlighted Sheeran’s dedication to delivering an unfiltered live music experience, even when things don’t go perfectly to plan.
As the performance drew to a close, Sheeran’s setlist reflected his prolific career—he has secured 14 UK number one singles and eight UK number one albums. His surprise appearance this year echoed his headline turn at BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Coventry in 2024, cementing his special relationship with the festival and its audience. The show closed with a rousing rendition of ‘Bad Habits’, leaving the crowd exhilarated.
Beyond Sheeran’s performance, the festival’s Saturday bill boasted an array of talent, including Sam Fender, Sugababes, Tom Odell, and Blossoms. Looking ahead to Sunday, music fans could anticipate further headline performances by Jade, Mumford & Sons, Haim, Wet Leg, and Tate McRae. The weekend promised an eclectic celebration of music across generations and genres.
Ed Sheeran’s surprise set is already being lauded as one of the weekend’s highlights, demonstrating the power of live music to deliver unexpected joy. With Glastonbury on the horizon, Sheeran’s secret show in Liverpool will likely be remembered as a moment when spontaneity and creativity intersected on stage, reinforcing his reputation as one of Britain’s most versatile performers.