Who's behind the notes? Discover Ed Sheeran: The Definitive Biography
"Shape of You" is one of Ed Sheeran's most popular and successful songs. Here are some interesting facts about the song and its impact:
Record-Breaking Streams: "Shape of You" was released as a single on January 6, 2017, and it quickly became a global sensation. It broke several streaming records, including the most-streamed song on Spotify in a single day at the time of its release.
Chart-Topping Success: The song topped the charts in multiple countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. It spent a record-breaking 33 weeks in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S.
Diamond Certification: "Shape of You" was certified Diamond by the RIAA in the United States, indicating sales and streaming equivalent units of over 10 million copies.
Writing Collaboration: The song was co-written by Ed Sheeran, Johnny McDaid (of Snow Patrol), and Steve Mac. The trio's collaboration resulted in a catchy and memorable pop hit.
Influence of Dancehall: The song incorporates elements of dancehall and tropical house, which contributed to its infectious and danceable beat. This fusion of genres helped it stand out in the pop music landscape.
Multiple Awards: "Shape of You" received numerous awards and nominations, including two Grammy Awards for Best Pop Solo Performance and Best Pop Vocal Album for Ed Sheeran's album "÷" (Divide), which featured the song.
Music Video: The music video for "Shape of You" has garnered hundreds of millions of views on YouTube. It features a storyline centered around boxing and romance, showcasing Sheeran's acting skills.
Ed Sheeran's Streaming Dominance: Ed Sheeran's success with "Shape of You" highlighted his status as a streaming powerhouse in the music industry. His albums and songs have consistently performed well on streaming platforms, cementing his position as one of the most-streamed artists globally.
Cultural Impact: The song's catchy melody and relatable lyrics made it a favorite for covers and parodies. It also played a role in popularizing the use of loop pedals and live recording techniques for solo performances.
Global Anthem: "Shape of You" became a global anthem, transcending language barriers and resonating with people from diverse backgrounds. Its universal appeal contributed to its massive success.
"Shape of You" remains a standout track in Ed Sheeran's career and a significant part of pop music history.