Guwahati, July 22: International pop superstar Ed Sheeran has named Shillong his favourite city in India, praising its unique atmosphere during a recent appearance on the web series “Spin the Wheel with Ed Sheeran.”

During the candid segment hosted by creator Shabaz Says, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter was asked to pick his favourite Indian destination. Without hesitation, Sheeran replied, “Shillong,” noting that the hill station “just felt very different.”

Sheeran first experienced Shillong on February 12, when he performed to more than 30,000 fans at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Addressing the audience that night, he remarked, “You guys are the loudest,” a compliment he has since reaffirmed.

The artist’s connection to Shillong carried over into the music video for his chart-topping single “Sapphire.” Filmed across 27 locations in and around the city, the video features Sheeran sipping local sha (tea), bargaining for fruit at roadside stalls, relaxing on a swing in Mattilang Park, and playing football with children.

One memorable sequence captures Sheeran aboard the iconic Bus Smit, a vintage vehicle synonymous with Shillong’s heritage. Since its release earlier this year, the “Sapphire” video has amassed over 120 million views on YouTube.

In the same interview, Sheeran lauded India’s cultural diversity, highlighting how each region offers distinct languages, cuisines, and rhythms. Yet he returned to his favourite: “Shillong just felt very different.”

A devoted football fan, Sheeran even likened Shillong’s energy to the intensity of a match between Newcastle United and Plymouth County. Ahead of his concert, he joined local youngsters for a friendly game, further cementing his bond with the city.