Ed Sheeran Post Prompts Spotify Release of Allan Taylor 1978 Album

Ed Sheeran posted on Instagram in April that he found Allan Taylor's 1978 album The Traveller in a record store in Williamsburg, New York. Sheeran wrote that he could not find the record online and described it as a special addition to his collection.

The post led to the album's first official release on Spotify. Taylor, an 80-year-old English folk singer based in Leeds, had previously made the record available only unofficially on YouTube.

Taylor began performing in the 1960s, touring Europe and the United States and signing contracts with major labels. He performed at the Royal Albert Hall with Fairport Convention and spent time in New York with Bob Marley and the Wailers. Mainstream commercial success did not follow.

" He later recorded albums in Europe and developed a storytelling style that drew comparisons to Leonard Cohen and Johnny Cash. Taylor retired from performing earlier this year after back surgery and canceled planned farewell concerts due to health issues.

Sheeran have spoken by phone.

Taylor described Sheeran as "remarkably down-to-earth, friendly and very interesting as a songwriter." Sheeran has said he may visit Taylor for tea. The title track of The Traveller includes the lines: "Running for the money / Running for the fame / Lost where he was going / And forgot his name."