Ed Sheeran is notably one of the most famous and possibly liked young artists. Between his cute Irish accent popping in and out of his music, his songs having a rock but rap vibe and mixture to them, and he pulls at the heart strings in some of his songs. Songs like "Photograph" from his prior album knows how to bring a nostalgic feeling of missing someone. His newer album is known for "Castle on a Hill" and "Shape of You," but some songs pull at the heart strings more than ever.
Dive
So don't call me baby
Unless you mean it
Don't tell me you need me
If you don't believe it
So let me know the truth
Before I dive right into you
A song everyone can relate to. That feeling of wanting to be loved by someone who is intentionally or not trying to send signals that they make like you too. Ed Sheeran's voice reminds me of when Paul McCartney wrote "Oh Darling" for The Beatles because of how raw it is. McCartney and Sheeran just had a raspy, raw voice during the climatic part that emphasizes the pain of knowing that despite all that you are, you can not force someone to love you and want you, despite how much they mean to you. A sad one from Sheeran, but easily relatable.
Perfect
When you said you looked a mess, I whispered underneath my breath
But you heard it, darling, you look perfect tonight
A bit of a happier song for Ed Sheeran but this song reminds me of just looking back at the happiest moments on the couch after a long day. Coming from a girl who has one too many long days to count in her life, I change into the comfiest clothes possible, throw my hair into a bun, and take off my makeup. However, my boyfriend will look at me and say "you're beautiful." Having that love in such a simple moment can overpower a fancy dinner, a piece of jewelry, or anything that can be seen as showing love.
Happier
Cause baby you look happier, you do
My friends told me one day I'll feel it too
And until then I'll smile to hide the truth
But I know I was happier with you
An awful part about a messy breakup is knowing someone else can make that person so much happier than you could have. But the worst part of it is, you don't know if someone can make you as happy as they did. Then you see them on a Facebook or Instagram post, or on the street going to get coffee or lunch. That person looks happier than they ever were with you and while it hurts, all you want is happiness for them.
Supermarket Flowers
So I'll sing Hallelujah, you were an angel in the shape of my mum
When I fell down, you'd be there holding me up
Spread your wings as you go
And when God takes you back
He'll say Hallelujah; you're home
This song is about Sheeran losing his grandmother. Most everyone can (unfortunately) relate to losing a family member. From a grandparent, aunt, uncle, parent, or someone who was like a parent. This is a very emotional song for Sheeran since it is a different love, a family love.
Save Myself
And all the ones that love me, they just left me on the shelf, no farewell
So before I save someone else, I've got to save myself
This is easily the most relatable song to myself. I am someone who gives so much to others and does not expect anything back. From buying food for someone else, offering a hug or shoulder, and not getting comfort or understanding when I most need it. Even in the song, it explains the conflict of still being a kind person to a stranger even still. The worst is when friends you have opened your heart and home to, still go back to either their bad habits and they are better off, so they just leave. When he asks at the beginning "would you do the same for me, honestly?" is something that I constantly want to ask those I have helped and they don't seem to appreciate my help. This song radiates frustration, sadness, and the conflict of wanting to fight against the helping nature and "save yourself," but knowing you are just the helper.
Ed Sheeran comes out with plenty of upbeat, happy songs like "Barcelona" and "Galloway Girl." However, these songs were written by Ed Sheeran and show another side to the artist. I love Ed Sheeran and always have and most likely always will. Knowing I can relate to him not only a musical level but a personal level is what makes him go from a great artist, to an amazing artist. I love Ed Sheeran and plan on supporting him for quite some time.
