Ed Sheeran’s latest album, (pronounced Divide), was released Friday, March 3 and has since dominated the world of music. The album broke the record for most one-day streams on Spotify the day it was released, “Shape of You” broke the record for most one-day streams of a track, and Sheeran remains the top-streamed artist on Spotify. After one week of being released, the album was officially named the top-selling album of 2017 – surpassing Bruno Mars’ album 24K Magic. The album’s popularity comes as no surprise to anyone who has listened to the record. Its dynamic set of songs – hence the name Divide – sends the listener on a journey filled with angst, reflection, passion, sadness, happiness, and grief.
Here are my thoughts on each song:
1. Eraser
Sheeran is on full-blast in this song, calling out the people and things that have caused him pain. From “family and friends filled with envy” to “money is the root of all evil,” Sheeran is using this song as his “pain eraser.” He also does some reflecting in this song, with the chorus ringing, “I’m well aware of certain things that can destroy a man like me.” As a musician who has remained humble throughout his career, Sheeran unveils the many temptations he faces as a public figure. He uses this song to flesh out the disadvantages of a life of fame but ultimately proves he can overcome these obstacles. The upbeat tempo and smooth rapping make this song catchy. It’s a very in-your-face track that allows Sheeran to showcase his ruthless side.
2. Castle on the Hill
Castle on the Hill’s first line – “When I was six years old, I broke my leg” – makes the listener a little weary at first. But as the song goes on, it takes the listener through the English countryside with Sheeran and his childhood friends. It paints a vivid picture of them driving, running, and drinking – playing a film in the reader’s mind. It captures the carelessness of adolescence in a way that resonates with almost anyone. From talking about his first kiss to where his friends have ended up, Sheeran’s depiction of life back home is endearing. It will make anyone yearn for their hometown.
3. Dive
The passion in this song is unparalleled by any other song on the album. His raspy voice and strained vocals in the chorus captivate the listener. His frustration is expressed loud and clear as he heartily sings, “I don’t know how much I can take… so don’t call me baby unless you mean it.” This harshly-sung chorus is balanced out by smooth, bluesy verses. The contrast between grunge and an easy flow makes Dive intriguing and different. Another thing that makes Dive unique is Sheeran’s addition of a female vocalist for one line of the song. As a man known for his one-man-show, this was a striking difference for Sheeran’s listeners. But it was a refreshing new twist that added to the song in an interesting way – we didn’t know the song needed it until we heard it.
4. Shape of You
Shape of You is unlike any song of Sheeran’s, and unlike any other song I’ve heard. It’s incredibly different and fun in an invigorating way. The catchy beat makes you want to dance and sing and just move – it’s energizing. The repeating rhythm of his voice makes it easy to follow the lyrics. It’s a song that almost anybody can enjoy. It’s magnetic, it’s innovative, it’s playful – it’s pop at its finest.
5. Perfect
Perfect is the next great love song. Sheeran flows from one line to the next beautifully and melodically, lulling the listener into a state of happiness. His words transport the reader into a novel-like love story. The song is full of romanticism and imagery. It is simply lovely. It makes any listener want to dance in the arms of their significant other. This song would be perfect for a wedding – especially as a first dance song. Ultimately, this song emulates its name.
6. Galway Girl
This song is the hidden gem of the album. The first time I heard it, I wasn’t sure how I felt about it because it’s so different (trend here?). The song is Irish-inspired, which can be heard throughout it. After all, it has “Galway” in the name – a city in Ireland. This song is the catchiest one of them all, and it can win over almost anybody with a few listens. At first, it seems like it’ll be another pop song, but it quickly turns into a pop-rap hybrid when the beat drops as Sheeran sings, “I met her on Grafton Street by the side of the bar.”
7. Happier
The message of this song is so relatable and so real, and really the only sad love song on the album. You can hear Sheeran’s sadness, heartbreak, and dejection as he sings. He paints a picture that allows listeners to see Sheeran’s ex-lover through his eyes. The chorus explodes, taking the listener by surprise. As someone who loves sad love songs – and this one is exceptional – this is my favorite song on the album.
8. New Man
New Man is a funny, light-hearted roast of guys who are players – the guys who always tend to be breakup rebounds. Sheeran pulls out all the stops here and goes a bit over the top. His dramatic depiction works, though. The song is super catchy, relatable, and a much-needed change of pace on the album. Sheeran paints himself as the true catch, saying he’s the one she’ll go back to. He claims, “I’m positive that he don’t wanna know about me,” presenting himself as true boyfriend material.
9. Hearts Don't Break Around Here
This isn’t as traditional of a love song as Perfect – it has its own style. It showcases the disbelief that accompanies love, as Sheeran says, “Every night, I’ll kiss you, you’ll say in my ear, ‘Oh, we’re in love, aren’t we?’” It also uncovers the fear and vulnerability that comes along with love as Sheeran talks about opening up: “Took my heart upon a one-way trip, guess she went wandering off with it. Unlike most women I know, this one will bring it back whole.” Sheeran seems to be incorporating his current love life into this song, as his contentment can be deeply felt by listeners. This is a close second for favorite song.
10. What Do I Know?
This song is fitting for the times. Sheeran spreads his message of “love and understanding, positivity,” advocating for the power of music to deliver important messages. His line, “What do I know?” is meant to lighten his statements. Since he is a musician who isn’t heavily into politics, his universal message of “love can change the world in a moment” is simple and much-needed in today’s political climate. This song is uplifting and optimistic, encouraging listeners to look to the future with hopeful eyes. It’s also incredibly catchy and dance-inducing, allowing people to let loose and have fun with it.
11. How Would You Feel (Paean)
This song’s repetitive melody puts listeners in a lull. It’s an all-around pleasant song. It’s relaxing, pretty, and mesmerizing. Its theme of love adds to the song’s appeal. The guitar solo three-quarters in is fitting and similarly enthralling. This song seems like it could make anyone fall in love. It transports listeners to a nice, sunny day with someone special.
12. Supermarket Flowers
This song showcases the reality of life after a loved one’s death. It’s about Sheeran’s grandmother, and he tells the story from the perspective of his mother. Sheeran’s depiction of straightening up after his grandmother’s passing is heartbreaking. The chorus is a beautiful remembrance of his grandmother, and he says some touching words about her being “an angel in the shape of my mom.” Moreover, he sings to her, “When God took you back, he said, ‘Hallelujah, you’re home.’” This song is the album’s tear-jerker and is bound to make any listener get a little emotional.
Bonus songs:
13. Barcelona
This is the album’s most fun song, transporting the listener to Barcelona and prompting them to dance to its upbeat rhythm.
14. Bibia Be Ye Ye
This is a quirky song that seems strange at first but becomes a catchy favorite in no time. It has some good advice and a little African influence that goes a long way.
15. Nancy Mulligan
As another song with Irish influence, this song is upbeat and interesting. It tells the love story of Sheeran’s grandfather and grandmother, showcasing Sheeran’s full-fledged storytelling abilities.
16. Save Myself
This song is a brutally honest self-reflection. Save Myself feels like it belongs as a main track. It’s heavy and deep, and a fitting end to the album – it is reminiscent of Sheeran’s usual style.
Thank you, Ed Sheeran, for blessing me with your greatness and allowing me to indulge in these revolutionary 16 songs. I appreciate you. See ya in September.
