Ed Sheeran has ended his 15-year relationship with Warner Music and its Atlantic Records division, prompting widespread discussion within the music industry.

In a message to fans, the singer insisted his departure was not the result of a dispute, but rather a personal and professional change as he moves into a new stage of life as a businessman and father.

However, the article claims that internal dissatisfaction with Warner’s current leadership and direction may have played a significant role in his decision.

According to unnamed industry sources cited by the Daily Mail, staff morale at Warner has declined since Aaron Bay-Schuck became a leading executive at the company.

Critics reportedly describe the label as increasingly disconnected from its UK operations, with major restructuring and cost-cutting measures contributing to uncertainty among employees.

The report also alleges that several respected executives left or were removed from the company, including Max Lousada, who had originally helped sign Sheeran in 2011.The article suggests Sheeran was unhappy with these changes and now wants greater control over his career and business relationships.Sources close to the singer claim he has built a dedicated personal team and no longer depends on Warner in the way he once did.The singer already operates his own imprint, Gingerbread Records, which currently sits within Warner.Industry speculation points to several possible next steps for Sheeran, including joining the newly launched label 26.2, which is backed by Sony Music and led by former Warner executives.Other possibilities include signing with Universal Music or releasing music independently.Despite the rumours and criticism surrounding Warner, Sheeran publicly maintained a respectful tone when announcing his departure.