The pines whisper a melody, the hills hum in harmony, and the wind carries echoes of a city that has always moved to the rhythm of its own making. Shillong—where melodies rise with the mist and music is not merely heard but lived—is preparing for a momentous night. On February 12, beneath a starlit sky at JN Stadium, Ed Sheeran’s voice is set to weave into the very fabric of the hills, transforming the city into a grand symphony of sound, where fans from across the country and beyond will converge to witness what promises to be a performance of a lifetime.
“Shillong has always had music in its veins. From homegrown blues legends to global superstars, the city embraces every note, every lyric,” says Benjamin Marbaniang, a local resident. “But to see an artist like Ed Sheeran perform here—this is the moment we’ve all been waiting for.”
The much-anticipated concert, organised by BookMyShow, follows the success of their Coldplay event in Mumbai. The excitement is already palpable, with a wave of visitors expected to flood into Meghalaya’s capital. Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh notes that over 60% of attendees are expected from beyond the state’s borders, with music lovers travelling from Assam, metro cities, and even abroad to be part of the spectacle. “Shillong is no longer just the Rock Capital of India; it is becoming a destination for the world,” he is quoted as saying in local media reports.
With growing footfalls from outside the region, Shillong’s music festivals and concerts are cementing its place as a must-visit destination for artists and fans alike. The Ed Sheeran concert is more than just an event; it’s a testament to how the city is evolving as a cultural and artistic hub.
To ensure a seamless experience, state authorities have been working closely with organisers. A special review meeting involving the Tourism Department, law enforcement, and the event team has addressed crowd management, venue access, and logistics. According to reports a key concern was protecting the football turf at JN Stadium—a lesson learned from the Bryan Adams concert. This time, the government has acquired advanced turf protection technology, the same being used at Coldplay’s Mumbai concert, to preserve the venue’s integrity.
Music lovers can expect an unforgettable setlist featuring Sheeran’s most beloved tracks, from the heartfelt “Perfect” and “Thinking Out Loud” to the electrifying “Shape of You” and “Bad Habits.” Known for his signature loop station performances, Sheeran will build entire songs live, layering melodies in real time—an experience that promises to be both intimate and spectacular.
Adding to the excitement, Kayan, one of India’s rising Indie stars, will open the evening with her signature fusion of R&B, electronic, and alternative sounds. Local artists from Shillong’s thriving music scene will also take the stage, giving audiences a taste of the homegrown talent that makes this city the heart of India’s live music movement.
Tickets had reportedly sold out early, but a fresh wave of availability has emerged on the app, sparking a final rush among fans eager to secure a spot. As the countdown begins, Shillong readies itself—not just for a concert but for a night when its pines will sway, its hills will resonate, and its people will once again remind the world why music and Shillong are inseparable.
