Who's behind the notes? Discover Ed Sheeran: The Definitive Biography
"Shape of You" is a popular song by the English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, released on January 6, 2017, as one of the lead singles from his third studio album, "÷" (Divide). Here are some interesting facts about the song and Ed Sheeran:
Chart-Topping Success: "Shape of You" achieved immense commercial success and topped the charts in numerous countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. It held the number one position on the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 consecutive weeks.
Streaming Record: The song set a record for the most streams in a single week on Spotify, accumulating over 56.7 million streams in the week ending January 12, 2017.
Co-Writers: Ed Sheeran co-wrote "Shape of You" with Johnny McDaid (a member of the band Snow Patrol) and Steve Mac. The song was originally intended for Rihanna, but Ed Sheeran ultimately decided to keep it for himself.
Influences: The song draws inspiration from dancehall and tropical house genres, with a catchy melody and rhythmic beats.
Lyricism: "Shape of You" uses metaphorical language to describe the attraction between two people, making references to a club, dancing, and physical connection. The lyrics contribute to the song's universal appeal.
Global Impact: The song's popularity transcended language barriers and was covered and translated by artists from around the world, contributing to its global reach.
Streaming Platforms: The music video for "Shape of You" has received billions of views on YouTube, further highlighting its widespread popularity.
Grammy Nominations: The song earned Ed Sheeran two Grammy Award nominations in 2018 for Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance.
Album Success: "Shape of You" wasn't the only hit from Ed Sheeran's "÷" album. The album also produced other chart-topping singles like "Castle on the Hill," "Galway Girl," and "Perfect."
Streaming Milestones: The song became the first track to reach two billion streams on Spotify, solidifying its place in music history.
Cover Versions and Parodies: Due to its popularity, "Shape of You" has been covered by numerous artists and parodied in various ways, showcasing its impact on pop culture.
Diverse Appeal: The song's blend of pop, R&B, and dancehall elements contributed to its widespread appeal, making it a hit across different demographics and musical tastes.
"Shape of You" not only became one of Ed Sheeran's biggest hits but also left a significant mark on the music industry and pop culture as a whole.