STACK NZ Mar #82

MUSIC FEATURE

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Ahead of the release of Ed Sheeran's hugely anticipated third album ÷ (divide) , we get a special insight into the singer-songwriter's rise courtesy of Tony Harlow, the music executive behind the talent. Words Zoë Radas

He seems a rather tranquil, self- assured person – what were your first impressions? There is drive and confidence, and he demands to be accepted on his own terms and not compromise. That’s why it’s still just him and a guitar on stage in stadiums. But the real trick was the ability to communicate

Managing asked me to. It was impossible not to believe, as he was so compelling. He owned rooms he had no right to even play in, and never projected a need to be cool over a need to speak to an audience. But we also share some personal history along the way that has strengthened our bond!

STACK : Ed Sheeran’s story is one of such self-motivation, to me; tiny independent releases, small gigs and lots of collaborations paved his way.When did you first see him live? TONY HARLOW: Honestly, I went to see Ed at UEA [the University of East Anglia] because a friend who was Product

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MARCH 2017

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