Ed Sheeran is a name synonymous with global pop culture. Known for his chart-topping hits, warm melodies, and lyrics that tug at the heartstrings, Sheeran has etched his place as one of the defining solo artists of the 21st century. But what many fans might not realize is that his influence extends far beyond his own music. In addition to being a multi-platinum-selling artist, Ed Sheeran is a prolific songwriter, whose pen has shaped some of the most memorable hits in modern pop music. While his own hits like Shape of You, Perfect, and Thinking Out Loud have solidified his superstar status, Sheeran’s songwriting catalog is far broader and arguably just as impactful.
In this article, we will explore the quieter side of Ed Sheeran’s musical genius—his role as a behind-the-scenes hitmaker, crafting songs for other artists that have gone on to become hits in their own right. We’ll also delve into his unique songwriting style and examine how his ability to craft lyrics and melodies has influenced both his fellow artists and the music industry at large.
Highlighting 5 Hidden Hits: Ed Sheeran’s Songs You Probably Didn’t Know He Wrote
- “Love Yourself” – Justin Bieber
When Justin Bieber released Purpose in 2015, it wasn’t just the arrival of a pop star returning to form; it was also the debut of one of the most poignant songs in his catalog. “Love Yourself,” a stripped-down, acoustic-driven track about self-worth and the end of a toxic relationship, became one of Bieber’s most successful singles. What many fans didn’t know was that the song was written by Ed Sheeran, along with his longtime collaborators Benjamin Levin (better known as Benny Blanco) and Justin Bieber himself.
The track, with its deceptively simple yet emotional lyrics, is a classic example of Sheeran’s ability to capture universal themes in a way that resonates deeply with listeners. What’s especially surprising about Sheeran’s involvement is the contrast between his own music—often soulful and intimate—and the more mainstream pop sound of “Love Yourself.” Yet, Ed’s subtle, self-deprecating approach to songwriting shines through in the track, showing his versatility as a writer capable of capturing the essence of another artist’s persona and sound.
- “Shape of You” – Rihanna (Rumored)
While Shape of You is undeniably one of Sheeran’s biggest hits as an artist, it’s also worth mentioning that there were rumors circulating about a version of the song originally written with Rihanna in mind. Although Rihanna ultimately passed on recording the song, Sheeran’s collaboration with his longtime producer Steve Mac led to the eventual release of Shape of You as part of his own album, Divide.
What’s intriguing about this “hidden hit” is that while it may not be widely recognized as a track written for another artist, it exemplifies Sheeran’s ability to adapt his songwriting to fit different voices and styles. Rihanna’s name has been associated with various other Sheeran songs, leading many to speculate on how his more dancehall-inspired tracks could have been a perfect fit for her musical persona.
- “Everything Has Changed” – Taylor Swift feat. Ed Sheeran
Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran have always been open about their close friendship and mutual admiration, and their collaboration on Everything Has Changed from Swift’s Red album was a natural result of this connection. While many might recognize Sheeran’s direct involvement in the song as an artist, it’s easy to forget that he had a hand in writing much of the track’s lyrics, blending his introspective style with Swift’s storytelling mastery.
The song, which is about the uncertainty and joy of a blossoming relationship, stands as a great example of Sheeran’s ability to write songs that transcend genre boundaries. It’s not a traditional pop anthem, nor a folk ballad, but rather a fusion of the two styles, showing how Sheeran’s contributions to the song created a seamless blend of their individual voices. Swift’s embrace of Sheeran’s lyrical sensibilities allowed the song to take on a heartfelt yet playful tone, making it a standout track on Red.
- “Castle on the Hill” – Vance Joy (Live Performance Only)
While Castle on the Hill is primarily known as one of Sheeran’s autobiographical songs from his Divide album, there are lesser-known instances of him writing for other artists. One such case is the collaboration between Sheeran and Vance Joy, an Australian singer-songwriter, for a live rendition of a track. The performance took place in a small, intimate venue, and while the song was never officially released, the chemistry between Sheeran’s and Joy’s voices, combined with the heartfelt lyrics, captured the attention of those lucky enough to witness the performance.
This hidden hit is a testament to how Sheeran’s storytelling, even in its rawest form, has the power to connect with listeners regardless of the artist’s specific style. Joy’s folk-infused pop sound was the perfect vessel for Sheeran’s personal narrative, showing how adaptable his songwriting can be to a variety of musical genres.
- “Little Things” – One Direction
One Direction’s “Little Things,” featured on their Take Me Home album, is another track that many fans may not realize was penned by Ed Sheeran. This slower, more reflective ballad was a departure from the boy band’s usual high-energy pop songs, showcasing a more tender and intimate side of their music.
Sheeran’s influence is palpable in the song’s lyrics, which focus on the imperfections of a partner that make them all the more lovable. His knack for finding beauty in the ordinary shines through, and his ability to write relatable, heartfelt lyrics helped elevate One Direction’s catalog beyond their usual teen-pop image. This song highlights Sheeran’s ability to capture emotion without relying on elaborate musical arrangements or gimmicks—something that made him a go-to collaborator for the world’s biggest pop acts.
Sheeran’s Songwriting Style: The Secret to His Success
One of the key reasons Ed Sheeran has become such a sought-after songwriter is his innate ability to tell stories that feel deeply personal yet universally relatable. He has an uncanny talent for weaving emotion into every lyric, which is what has made his songs so universally popular with listeners around the world. But it’s not just about the words; it’s about the way he structures his songs.
Sheeran’s songs often feature intricate yet accessible melodies, frequently incorporating elements of folk, pop, R&B, and even hip-hop. He blends genres effortlessly, which not only gives his own music a fresh sound but also makes his songs adaptable to a variety of artists and musical styles. His ability to craft an emotive, simple melody that feels both familiar and unique is a hallmark of his style. His songs are often built around strong, hook-driven choruses that capture listeners’ attention while remaining true to his lyrical sensibilities.
Lyrically, Sheeran is known for his poetic, yet conversational style. Whether he’s writing about love, loss, or life’s challenges, his lyrics are direct, vulnerable, and full of nuance. He has a rare ability to create songs that feel intimate, even when performed by other artists. This makes him an ideal collaborator, as his songs can take on a new life when reinterpreted through the lens of another artist.
Moreover, Sheeran’s work often explores the themes of love and relationships, but it is his ability to explore the complexities of human emotions—be it the joy of love, the pain of heartache, or the bittersweet nature of nostalgia—that has made him one of the most in-demand songwriters in the world. His knack for capturing these subtleties is what has allowed him to write songs that resonate not just with his own fans, but with audiences across a wide spectrum of genres.
Impact on the Music Industry: A Behind-the-Scenes Hitmaker
Ed Sheeran’s songwriting ability has undeniably had a significant impact on contemporary pop music. In an era dominated by slick, highly-produced hits, Sheeran’s emphasis on raw emotion, simplicity, and authenticity has provided a refreshing alternative. His songs have become templates for other artists looking to strike the perfect balance between commercial appeal and emotional depth.
As a collaborator, Sheeran has worked with a range of artists from different genres, and his influence can be seen in the careers of stars like Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, One Direction, and even Eminem. His songwriting has brought pop music back to its roots, focusing on storytelling and connection rather than mere spectacle. This has made him a revered figure in the industry, not just as a performer, but as a songwriter who helps shape the sound and direction of modern pop music.
Closing Thoughts: A Legacy of Songwriting Genius
As both a solo artist and a prolific behind-the-scenes hitmaker, Ed Sheeran’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. While his own hits have made him a household name, his songwriting contributions to other artists’ careers have solidified his place as one of the most important songwriters of his generation.
Ed’s ability to write songs that speak to the heart of human experience has not only made him one of the most successful songwriters in history but has also redefined what it means to craft a pop song. His musical genius continues to shape the landscape of contemporary music, whether he is the face of the song or not. Through his words, melodies, and collaborations, Sheeran’s songwriting legacy will likely continue to influence artists for years to come, making him a true icon in the world of popular music.
