What makes Afterglow by Ed Sheeran notable?

'Afterglow' achieved notable commercial success, debuting at number one on the UK Singles Chart and receiving positive reviews for its lyrical sincerity. It also represents a pivotal moment as Sheeran transitioned from collaborative projects to re-establishing his identity as a solo artist. Released on December 21, 2020, 'Afterglow' came shortly after Ed Sheeran's hiatus following the massive success of his album 'No.6 Collaborations Project' in 2019. This single marks Sheeran's return to a more personal and stripped-back sound, showcasing his songwriting prowess in a solo format.