Ed Sheeran featured on Rolling Stone.
In a candid glimpse into the soul of musical sensation Ed Sheeran, we dive into a playlist that reverberates with the echoes of his artistic DNA. From poignant encounters to the melodies that stirred his aspirations, Sheeran’s musical odyssey is a mosaic of diverse inspirations that have crafted his unique sound. Join us as we unravel the tracks that resonated with Sheeran, revealing the artists who left an indelible mark on his musical journey.
- “Cannonball” by Damien Rice, 2002 At the tender age of 11, a serendipitous encounter with Damien Rice’s soulful performance altered the course of Ed Sheeran’s life. After an intimate performance in an Irish club, Sheeran not only found himself entranced by Rice’s music but also had the privilege of meeting the artist in person. This meeting ignited the creative spark within Sheeran, prompting him to embark on his songwriting voyage. The profound impact of this experience is a testament to the power of genuine connection.
- “Layla” by Derek and the Dominos, 1970 In a nostalgic nod to his youth, Sheeran recalls a pivotal moment when Eric Clapton’s electrifying rendition of “Layla” during the Queen’s Jubilee broadcast left an indelible impression on his young mind. The spectacle of Clapton’s guitar prowess stirred an awakening within Sheeran, planting the seed of his own aspirations to master the instrument. While recognizing the uniqueness of Clapton’s virtuosity, Sheeran’s admiration stands as a tribute to the influential figures who ignite creative flames in the hearts of aspiring artists.
- “Stan” by Eminem, 2000 A surprising entry in Ed Sheeran’s playlist narrative reveals the influence of his father, who introduced him to Eminem’s iconic album, The Marshall Mathers LP. Intriguingly paralleling Eminem with the legendary Bob Dylan, Sheeran’s father tapped into a resonant chord, exposing him to a world of raw lyricism and unfiltered expression. With unreserved admiration, Sheeran crowns Eminem as his perennial favorite in the realm of rap, underscoring the enduring power of cross-generational musical connections.
- “Ricky” by the Game, 2011 Channeling the profound impact of The Game’s fervent storytelling, Sheeran extols the rapper’s authenticity and emotional depth in the track “Ricky.” Sheeran’s reverence for The Game’s sincerity underscores the potent connection between artist and listener, reaffirming the emotive potency that lies at the core of musical creations.
- “Irish Heartbeat” by Van Morrison and the Chieftains, 1988 Van Morrison’s timeless melodies reverberate through Sheeran’s memories, harking back to family road trips where the album featuring “Irish Heartbeat” served as a melodic backdrop. These cherished moments sculpted Sheeran’s affinity for Morrison’s artistry, showcasing the profound influence that familial bonds and shared experiences can exert on an artist’s creative evolution.
- “Guiding Light” by Foy Vance, 2013 A harmonious fusion of mentorship and artistic collaboration emerges as Sheeran recounts his longstanding admiration for Foy Vance. Reflecting on their shared musical journey, Sheeran’s collaboration on “Guiding Light” becomes a pinnacle of pride, encapsulating the symbiotic relationship between seasoned artists and budding talents.
- “Do You Remember” by Jarryd James, 2015 Ed Sheeran’s insatiable curiosity for fresh sounds led him to the debut single of Australian artist Jarryd James. The melodic intrigue of “Do You Remember” resonated with Sheeran, illuminating the perpetual quest for novel sonic experiences that define an artist’s exploration.
- “White Foxes” by Susanne Sundfør, 2015 A testament to the joy of musical discovery, Sheeran’s introduction to Susanne Sundfør’s ambient masterpiece, “The Silicon Veil,” via a dear friend, unveils the enchantment of unearthing hidden gems. Sheeran’s appreciation for Sundfør’s sonic landscapes underscores the boundless horizons that unfurl when artists share their musical tapestries.
- “A Million Miles Away” by Rory Gallagher, 1973 In a harmonious blend of homage and initiation, Sheeran’s guitar journey began with the chords of Rory Gallagher’s “A Million Miles Away.” Echoing the sentiment expressed by the legendary Jimi Hendrix, Sheeran’s initiation into the world of guitar artistry pays tribute to the transformative power of musical lineage.
In the symphony of Ed Sheeran’s musical voyage, these tracks stand as testament to the myriad threads that weave together his sonic tapestry. As Sheeran continues to evolve and carve his own path, the echoes of these influential melodies resonate, guiding the rhythm of his artistic odyssey.
