Unfortunately, bad days are one of the few things in life we can truly rely on. Some people get them more often than others, but the key is knowing what to do on these seemingly-endless days. Whenever I’m having a rough day, I like to turn to music to pick me up, help me sort out my emotions, and get my head on straight, One artist that really does it for me is Ed Sheeran. I have been fortunate enough to see Ed in concert twice now, and he is the most uniquely talented performer I have ever seen. His music is fun and upbeat while also delivering powerful stories. So, without further ado, here are 6 Ed Sheeran songs to get you through those tough days.
1. Save Myself
I know that when I’m feeling down, I like to listen to slow songs to match my mood. This song is about always feeling like you have to help other people, but sometimes those people don’t appreciate your help or they end up stabbing you in the back. One of the lines that always gets me is “And all the ones that love me, they just left me on the shelf.”
But the song ends on a hopeful note, saying, “And before I love someone else, I've got to love myself.” Sometimes you have to learn how to save yourself and put yourself first before you can save other people.
2. Even My Dad Does Sometimes
Keeping with the slow tempo, the first line of this song is “It’s alright to cry, even my dad does sometimes.” I think it’s important to remind ourselves that it’s okay to cry. We shouldn’t be ashamed or embarrassed to let out our emotions because it can often be the only way to feel better.
This song also touches on the topic of ending one’s own life with the lines, “It’s alright to say that death’s the only thing you haven’t tried. But just for today, hold on.” On the days that feel the most dark and hopeless, it’s nice to hear someone say that your feelings are valid, but that doesn’t mean you should give up on life. Tomorrow will be better.
3. What Do I Know?
Picking up the tempo a little, this song is about how music can change the world, and more specifically, how one person can make a difference in the world. The chorus starts with, “We could change this whole world with a piano,” and ends with, “Love can change the world in a moment.” When I’m in a bad mood and I hear this song, it gives me hope that the world can be a beautiful place, we just have to spread a little love to one another.
4. Castle On The Hill
The first single off of Sheeran’s newest album, Divide, this song is just plain fun to sing and dance along to, and it can really help pull you out of that bad funk. Even though you may not be able to directly relate to his experiences, the catchy beat and infectious melody give you that feeling of nostalgia that will leave your heart tingling with sentimentality.
5. Bibia Be Ye Ye
One of my personal favorites from Divide, this song is all about picking yourself up when you’re feeling down. The music video was made in Ghana, showing the happy natives lip-synching along to the song while parading about their beautiful country.
There are 3 Twi (the most widely spoken language in Ghana) phrases in this song. “Se enioma enko ye” means “If things aren’t going well.” “Bibia be ye ye” means “All will be well.” “Wo nooma maaaa ye” means “Your problems will be solved.” So the message of this song is, if things aren’t going well, don’t worry because your problems will be solved, and all will be well. It’s a simple mantra but one that can really make a difference when you’re feeling low.
6. You Need Me, I Don’t Need You
This song racks up the intensity quite a bit, and that’s why it’s the last song on my list. It’s about not conforming to the person that society wants you to be, accepting who you are, and proving that who you are is of great worth.
When you’re having a bad day, it’s easy to let your thoughts wander, and sometimes your mind can take you to some pretty dark places. If you find yourself in a place where you feel pressured to be something you’re not, give this song a listen. You’ll feel powerful and exhilarated, especially if you can “rap” the really fast lines.
