Ed Sheeran rediscovers folk gem, revives 45-year-old album

Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has unexpectedly reignited interest in folk artist Allan Taylor's 1978 album, 'The Traveller.' Sheeran discovered the LP in a New York record shop and lauded it on Instagram, calling it a "special vinyl in the collection." This endorsement has led to the album's first-ever release on Spotify.

Taylor, 80, who began his career performing in pubs and touring Europe, experienced a life of struggle and missed mainstream success despite significant achievements like performing at the Royal Albert Hall. Sheeran's discovery arrived just as Taylor was preparing to retire and had to cancel his farewell concerts due to health concerns.

The two artists have since spoken, with Taylor finding Sheeran "remarkably down-to-earth." Taylor shared his life story with Sheeran, detailing his adventurous youth leaving home at 21 to seek experience across Europe, relying on his guitar to survive.

Taylor's career included a stint supporting Fairport Convention at the Royal Albert Hall, which led to a major record deal he later regretted mishandling. He also spent time in New York's folk scene and briefly assisted Bob Marley and the Wailers. Despite setbacks, Taylor continued to develop his unique storytelling style, finding his true voice in the early 1980s.