On April 17, 2023, Ed Sheeran defied his stadium-sized reputation with an intimate concert at Admiralspalast, Berlin, ahead of his album release for Subtract. Despite the venue’s modest capacity of 1500, Sheeran’s performance left a lasting impression, especially thanks to an unexpected guest appearance by fan Annemarie Schmidt during the finale.

Radio Hamburg reported that the audience, initially absorbed in the new tracks from Subtract, experienced a shift in mood when Sheeran decided to infuse the atmosphere with energy. Transitioning from somber tones to celebratory vibes, Sheeran’s rendition of “Afterglow” at the end of the concert became the highlight of the evening.

Despite Admiral Spalast’s 10 pm curfew, Sheeran refused to cut short his performance, opting instead to continue singing amidst the audience. He ventured into the midst of his fans, where a platform, possibly intended for photographers, provided an impromptu stage for Sheeran’s unplugged set, which included hits like “Perfect” and “The A Team.”

During “Afterglow,” Sheeran was pleasantly surprised to hear Annemarie singing along with him. Encouraging her to join him on stage, the unplanned duet added an extra layer of magic to the performance. Annemarie later shared her experience in a heartfelt post, expressing gratitude for the unforgettable moment.

In an interview with DASDING, Annemarie revealed her astonishment at being unaware that Sheeran had heard her singing. She described the experience as surreal, akin to watching a movie unfold before her eyes.

For Sheeran, the unplanned duet with Annemarie was a testament to the genuine connection he shares with his fans. Despite the lack of planning, Sheeran expressed appreciation for Annemarie’s contribution, affirming the spontaneity and authenticity of the moment.