In today’s music landscape, collaborations between artists from different genres have become increasingly common, but not all collaborations are created equal. Some surprise, some delight, and some leave a lasting impact on the industry. One such collaboration is between global pop sensation Ed Sheeran and Atlanta’s rap heavyweight Lil Baby on the track “2step.” At first glance, this pairing might seem like an odd match—Sheeran, with his acoustic-driven pop anthems, and Lil Baby, a rapper with a modern, gritty style. Yet, this very juxtaposition is what makes “2step” such a compelling piece of music. Their partnership is a testament to the beauty of cross-genre collaborations, a meeting of minds and sounds that highlights the broadening boundaries of today’s music scene.
Sheeran’s rise to fame has been a slow burn compared to the rapid, meteoric ascent of Lil Baby, but both have reached iconic status in their respective fields. Sheeran’s melodic sensibility and introspective lyricism have won him a dedicated global fanbase, while Lil Baby’s authenticity and effortless command of the rap world have made him one of the most sought-after artists in the hip-hop community. The meeting of these two powerhouses is significant not just for their fanbases but for what it symbolizes in the broader context of the music industry: a blending of genres that is redefining the very notion of what popular music can be.
Song Overview: The Crafting of “2step”
“2step” is a sonic fusion that masterfully blends Ed Sheeran’s signature melodic pop with Lil Baby’s contemporary rap. The song, appearing on Sheeran’s 2021 album Equals, captures the feeling of movement, rhythm, and navigating life’s complexities, much like the dance it references. Sheeran’s heartfelt verses carry his unmistakable acoustic warmth, while Lil Baby’s rapid-fire, smooth flow interjects with a raw energy, providing the perfect counterpoint.
Thematically, “2step” tells a story of resilience and focus in the face of life’s obstacles. Sheeran, always introspective, sings about pushing through challenges and maintaining rhythm despite the chaos. It’s a metaphor for the balancing act of life and creativity, a topic that resonates deeply with Sheeran’s journey as an artist constantly evolving under the weight of global fame. Lil Baby’s contribution, on the other hand, brings a streetwise edge to the track, reflecting his own hustle and rise from hardship. His verses give the song a grittier, more grounded narrative that complements Sheeran’s more reflective approach.
Musically, the track is a masterclass in genre blending. It starts with a familiar acoustic guitar melody, Sheeran’s bread and butter, and slowly builds into something far more dynamic, incorporating trap beats and synths that align with Lil Baby’s style. This gradual layering of sounds mirrors the thematic build-up in the song, from Sheeran’s introspective musings to Lil Baby’s confident declarations. The production is polished, yet it allows both artists to retain their distinctive styles without overshadowing one another. This balance is the key to the track’s success, ensuring that “2step” feels like a true collaboration rather than a mere feature.
Creative Process: The Fusion of Styles
One of the most intriguing aspects of “2step” is how seamlessly Ed Sheeran and Lil Baby manage to integrate their musical worlds. Sheeran’s background in acoustic songwriting and melody-driven pop might seem worlds apart from Lil Baby’s trap-influenced rap, but their collaboration feels organic and intentional. The song doesn’t force either artist to compromise on their artistic identity; instead, it finds common ground between Sheeran’s melodic sensibilities and Lil Baby’s rhythmic flow.
In interviews, Sheeran has spoken about his admiration for hip-hop and rap, noting that it’s a genre he’s drawn from throughout his career. Tracks like “You Need Me, I Don’t Need You” and his collaborations with artists like Eminem and Stormzy are proof that Sheeran’s versatility extends beyond acoustic pop. For “2step,” Sheeran approached Lil Baby because he wanted an artist who could bring something entirely different to the table—someone who could infuse the track with an energy and perspective that he couldn’t provide alone. Lil Baby’s inclusion wasn’t just an afterthought or a commercial decision; it was central to the song’s creative vision.
For Lil Baby, collaborating with Sheeran was equally as significant. In a space where rap features often dominate mainstream pop tracks, Lil Baby approached the collaboration with a careful balance of authenticity and accessibility. His verses don’t just feel like a rap break in the middle of a pop song; they enhance the narrative, adding layers to Sheeran’s story of resilience with his own reflections on the grind and success. It’s this mutual respect and understanding that makes “2step” feel so cohesive despite the contrasting styles.
Impact and Reception: Chart Success and Critical Acclaim
When “2step” was released, it quickly climbed the charts, a testament to both the star power of its creators and the track’s undeniable appeal. The song resonated with fans of both artists, offering something fresh yet familiar to each audience. For Sheeran’s fans, it was a reminder of his willingness to push boundaries and experiment with new sounds, while Lil Baby’s fanbase appreciated the rapper’s ability to seamlessly step into a different musical world without losing his authenticity.
Critically, the song was praised for its boldness and its successful fusion of genres. Some reviewers highlighted how the track exemplified a growing trend in the music industry—the blending of pop and rap into a hybrid sound that appeals to a wide demographic. Others praised the chemistry between Sheeran and Lil Baby, noting that their collaboration felt natural rather than forced. “2step” wasn’t just a hit; it was a statement, a marker of how far both artists had come in their careers and a glimpse into the future of genre-fluid music.
Commercially, the song performed well across multiple markets, bolstered by strong streaming numbers and airplay. While it may not have reached the viral heights of some of Sheeran’s previous singles, “2step” was a steady hit that solidified Sheeran’s reputation as a versatile artist willing to take risks. For Lil Baby, the collaboration further expanded his reach into pop audiences, proving his adaptability and cementing his place as one of the most versatile rappers of his generation.
Visuals and Music Video: A Snapshot of Energy
Accompanying the release of “2step” was a vibrant music video that perfectly captured the energy of the track. Set in Kyiv, Ukraine, the video follows Sheeran and Lil Baby as they navigate the city, dancing their way through bustling streets and colorful backdrops. The choice of Kyiv as a setting was both unexpected and poignant, as the video was filmed shortly before the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Sheeran later announced that proceeds from the video would be donated to support the people of Ukraine, adding a deeper layer of meaning to the visuals.
Aesthetically, the video mirrors the rhythm and flow of the song. It features quick cuts, dynamic camera movements, and an overall sense of movement that reflects the “2step” dance referenced in the lyrics. Sheeran’s laid-back, almost casual presence contrasts with Lil Baby’s cool, collected demeanor, but together they create a visual that feels as seamless as the song itself. The video doesn’t rely on heavy special effects or elaborate storylines; instead, it lets the energy of the music and the chemistry between the artists take center stage.
Conclusion: A New Era of Genre Fusion
“2step” is more than just a song—it’s a symbol of where the music industry is headed. In a world where genres are becoming increasingly fluid, collaborations like the one between Ed Sheeran and Lil Baby are paving the way for a new era of musical experimentation. The blending of Sheeran’s acoustic pop with Lil Baby’s modern rap represents a fusion of worlds that, in the past, might have seemed incompatible. Yet, as “2step” proves, these collaborations can produce something entirely new, something that pushes the boundaries of what pop music can be.
This track is a reflection of the ongoing evolution of both artists, as well as the industry at large. It’s a reminder that great music transcends genre, and that the most unexpected collaborations can often yield the most exciting results. In “2step,” Ed Sheeran and Lil Baby have created not just a song, but a blueprint for the future of genre-bending collaborations. As the lines between pop, rap, and other genres continue to blur, we can expect to see more partnerships like this one—partnerships that challenge the status quo and, in the process, create music that resonates with an even broader audience.
