Today is the day for Ed Sheeran fans! His new album, No. 6 Collaborations Project, has fans tuned in and celebrating worldwide. If you aren’t familiar with Ed’s album history, this is the second collaborations album he has added to his repertoire. Ed merges all genres and takes many risks with the variety of tracks on this album. I guarantee that there is something for everyone.
Here are some of the stand-out tracks of No. 6 Collaborations Project that cover genres from country to rap. Let’s “Dive” right into it!
Stand-Out Tracks of No. 6 Collaborations Project
Beautiful People (feat. Khalid)
The theme of the first five singles from the album seems to be that Ed is not conforming to the usual lifestyle of a pop star. Sheerios are not at all surprised by this concept. “Beautiful People” further confirms this humble approach with lyrics like, “I’m not fazed by all the lights and flashing cameras, ’cause with my arms around you, there’s no need to care.” Awwww! Above all, the two artists seem to blend so well and have similar styles. The song will leave you wanting more from Ed and Khalid.
Cross Me (feat. Chance the Rapper & PnB Rock)
“Cross Me” is a bop! I played it in the car on repeat for about two days straight. The PnB Rock hook is super catchy and makes you want to get up and dance right away. The song is a captivating take on feeling protective over your partner. It is a straight-up ‘don’t mess with my girl’ anthem.
Best Part of Me (feat. YEBBA)
“Best Part of Me” is by far the tearjerker of this album. It sounds even more heartfelt on vinyl. For the fans that fell in love with “Kiss Me,” “Thinking Out Loud,” and “Perfect,” this one is for you. When he starts off the song by whispering “1, 2, 3,” I am instantly reminded of this “Kiss Me” performance from 2012. Somehow he always finds new words to express the sentiments of everlasting love. If you’re looking for a wedding duet in 2019 or 2020, claim it now! Likewise, the video is a classic black-and-white live recording at Abbey Road Studios. Swoon!
Way To Break My Heart (feat. Skrillex)
Sometimes song titles speak to you before you listen to them. This track did just that. The slower intro may catch you by surprise, and you will be waiting for the Skrillex beats to drop. Don’t worry; they do! This track jumped out to me the most, apart from the previously released singles. If you listen carefully, the instrumental played with the first and second verses sounds like John Waite’s “Missing You.” Although that comparison might be a bit of a stretch, I love it!
BLOW (with Chris Stapleton & Bruno Mars)
A very unexpected introduction for an Ed Sheeran song! The three artists all seem to have branched out with this one and gone a little more rock ‘n’ roll for “BLOW.” Chris Stapleton’s style seems to have a lot of influence on this track. It is a little more risqué than your average Ed Sheeran radio hit, but fans are here for it. The music video is yet another surprising take on the song as it features a female rock band in place of the male singers. All in all, it’s a jam and the perfect way to end the album.
Overall, every song lives up to his stadium sell-out standards, but it’s only day one. So, enjoy No. 6 Collaborations Project, Sheerio friends. I’ve got a lot more listening and dancing to do!