The influence of collaborations: Ed Sheeran's collaborations with other artists and its impact on his music
Ed Sheeran is one of the most successful and versatile pop singers of our time. He has released four studio albums, won four Grammy Awards, and sold over 150 million records worldwide. But he is not only a solo artist; he is also a prolific collaborator who has worked with a wide range of musicians from different genres and backgrounds.
In this blog post, we will explore some of Ed Sheeran's most notable collaborations and how they have influenced his music style, creativity, and popularity. We will also discuss the benefits and challenges of collaborating with other artists, and what we can learn from Ed Sheeran's collaborative approach.
Ed Sheeran's Collaborations: A Brief Overview
Ed Sheeran has collaborated with over 50 artists since his debut in 2011. Some of his collaborations are featured on his own albums, such as No.6 Collaborations Project (2019), which consists entirely of duets with other singers. Some of his collaborations are guest appearances on other artists' songs, such as "I Don't Care" with Justin Bieber (2019), "Perfect Duet" with Beyoncé (2017), and "Everything Has Changed" with Taylor Swift (2012). Some of his collaborations are co-writing or co-producing credits, such as "Love Yourself" for Justin Bieber (2015), "Shape of You" for himself (2017), and "Permission to Dance" for BTS (2021).
Ed Sheeran's collaborations span across various musical genres, such as pop, R&B, hip hop, rock, country, folk, and dancehall. He has worked with artists from different countries and cultures, such as Camila Cabello and Cardi B from the US, Stormzy and Dave from the UK, Paulo Londra from Argentina, and BTS from South Korea. He has also collaborated with artists from different generations and levels of fame, such as Eminem and 50 Cent from the 90s, Bruno Mars and The Weeknd from the 2010s, and Young Thug and H.E.R. from the 2020s.
Ed Sheeran's Collaborations: The Impact on His Music
Ed Sheeran's collaborations have had a significant impact on his music in several ways. First, they have expanded his musical range and repertoire by exposing him to new sounds, styles, and techniques. For example, working with rappers such as Eminem, Stormzy, and Travis Scott has improved his rap skills and flow. Working with singers such as Beyoncé, Yebba, and H.E.R. has enhanced his vocal abilities and harmonies. Working with producers such as Benny Blanco, Skrillex, and Max Martin has introduced him to new beats, instruments, and effects.
Second, they have increased his creativity and innovation by challenging him to adapt to different musical contexts and expectations. For example, working with Justin Bieber on "I Don't Care" required him to write a catchy pop song that would appeal to a global audience. Working with The Weeknd on "Dark Times" required him to sing a dark and moody R&B song that would fit The Weeknd's aesthetic. Working with BTS on "Permission to Dance" required him to write a happy-go-lucky dance song that would suit BTS's message.
Third, they have boosted his popularity and reputation by exposing him to new fans and markets. For example, working with Beyoncé on "Perfect Duet" helped him reach the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time in his career. Working with Camila Cabello and Cardi B on "South of the Border" helped him gain more listeners in Latin America. Working with BTS on "Permission to Dance" helped him connect with one of the biggest fanbases in the world.
Ed Sheeran's Collaborations: The Benefits and Challenges
Ed Sheeran's collaborations have brought him many benefits as an artist, such as:
- Learning from other artists' experiences, skills, and perspectives
- Experimenting with new musical ideas and possibilities
- Expanding his musical network and connections
- Reaching out to new audiences and markets
- Having fun and enjoying making music with others
However, Ed Sheeran's collaborations have also posed some challenges for him as an artist, such as:
- Balancing his own vision and identity with those of his collaborators
- Negotiating creative differences and conflicts
- Managing expectations and pressures from fans and critics
- Dealing with legal issues and contracts
- Maintaining