Hello, music enthusiasts! Are you a fan of Ed Sheeran’s soulful tunes and want to showcase your guitar skills by playing his songs? Look no further, as we bring you a curated list of the best Ed Sheeran songs to play on the guitar. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced guitarist, these songs will surely captivate your audience and provide an enjoyable playing experience. So, grab your guitar and let’s dive into the world of Ed Sheeran’s melodious compositions!
Introduction
Ed Sheeran, the renowned English singer-songwriter, has touched the hearts of millions with his heartfelt lyrics and mesmerizing melodies. His songs are often characterized by their acoustic and folk-inspired sound, making them perfect for guitar enthusiasts. Playing Ed Sheeran’s songs on the guitar not only allows you to appreciate his artistry but also helps you develop your guitar skills. In this article, we will explore seven of the best Ed Sheeran songs that are well-suited for guitar players of all levels.
The Advantages of Playing Ed Sheeran Songs on Guitar
1. Emotional Connection through Music 🎵
Ed Sheeran’s songs are filled with emotional depth, which allows you to connect with the music on a profound level. Playing and even singing along to his heartfelt lyrics can evoke powerful emotions, providing a therapeutic experience.
2. Acoustic Guitar Mastery 🎸
Many of Ed Sheeran’s songs are primarily guitar-driven, making them ideal for enhancing your acoustic guitar skills. By learning and mastering his songs, you will improve your fingerpicking, strumming, and chord transitions, ultimately becoming a more versatile guitarist.
3. Vocal Accompaniment Practice 🎤
Ed Sheeran’s music often intertwines his guitar playing with his soulful vocals. Playing his songs on guitar gives you the opportunity to practice singing while playing, honing your ability to coordinate your voice with the instrument.
4. Versatility in Genre 🎶
Ed Sheeran’s repertoire spans various genres, including pop, folk, and even rap. By learning his songs, you expose yourself to diverse musical styles, broadening your understanding and appreciation of different genres.
5. Crowd-Pleasing Performances 🎉
Ed Sheeran’s popularity ensures that his songs resonate with audiences around the world. Playing his hits at gigs or gatherings is a surefire way to captivate and engage your listeners, leaving a lasting impression.
6. Songwriting Inspiration ✍️
Ed Sheeran’s songwriting prowess is revered by musicians worldwide. Studying his compositions can provide invaluable inspiration for your own songwriting endeavors, helping you develop your unique musical voice.
7. Enjoyment and Fun 🎶😄
Above all, playing Ed Sheeran’s songs on guitar is simply enjoyable and fun! Letting the melodious tunes resonate from your strings brings immense pleasure, allowing you to escape into the world of music.
The Disadvantages of Playing Ed Sheeran Songs on Guitar
1. High Skill Requirements 🎸
Some of Ed Sheeran’s songs, especially his more complex compositions, require advanced guitar skills. Beginners might need to start with simpler songs and gradually build up their expertise to tackle the more challenging pieces.
2. Overplayed Songs 😶
As Ed Sheeran enjoys tremendous popularity, some of his songs have been overplayed, potentially leading to listener fatigue. It is essential to balance the inclusion of his hits with lesser-known gems to keep your repertoire fresh and diverse.
3. Personal Interpretation Challenges 🎵
While playing cover versions of Ed Sheeran’s songs can be enjoyable, it might be challenging to capture the essence of his unique style and delivery. Striving for authenticity while adding your personal touch can be a delicate balance to achieve.
4. Narrowly Focused Repertoire 🎶
Though Ed Sheeran’s songs are undeniably captivating, restricting yourself solely to his compositions might limit your musical exploration. It is crucial to encompass a wide range of artists and genres to broaden your musical horizons.
5. Limited Technical Skill Development 🎸
While Ed Sheeran’s songs offer opportunities for improving specific guitar techniques, solely focusing on his repertoire might hinder your overall technical growth as a guitarist. Exploring different styles and genres can provide a more comprehensive development of your skills.
6. Reduced Originality 🎶
Playing well-known cover songs by Ed Sheeran can sometimes overshadow your own creativity and original compositions. It is vital to strike a balance between paying homage to your favorite artist while also exploring your own unique musicality.
7. Changing Trends and Preferences 👥
Musical preferences and trends are continually evolving. Devoting too much time only to Ed Sheeran’s songs might limit your ability to adapt to new influences and stay relevant in the ever-changing music landscape.
Table: Best Ed Sheeran Songs to Play on Guitar
| Song Title | Album | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Thinking Out Loud | x | Intermediate |
| 2. Shape of You | ÷ | Beginner |
| 3. Photograph | x | Intermediate |
| 4. Perfect | ÷ | Intermediate |
| 5. Castle on the Hill | ÷ | Intermediate |
| 6. The A Team | + | Beginner |
| 7. Don’t | x | Intermediate |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I play Ed Sheeran songs on an electric guitar?
Yes, you can definitely play Ed Sheeran songs on an electric guitar. However, keep in mind that his music is often associated with acoustic and folk elements, so adjusting the tone and effects on your electric guitar might be necessary.
2. Are Ed Sheeran songs suitable for beginners?
While some of Ed Sheeran’s songs are beginner-friendly, others require more advanced techniques. We recommend starting with simpler songs like “The A Team” and gradually working your way up to the more intricate compositions.
3. Can I sing along while playing Ed Sheeran songs on guitar?
Absolutely! Ed Sheeran’s music often combines guitar-playing with his soulful vocals. Singing along while playing his songs can enhance your musical experience and help you refine your coordination between vocals and guitar.
4. What is the signature guitar used by Ed Sheeran?
Ed Sheeran is well-known for using Martin guitars, particularly the Martin LX1E and the Martin Ed Sheeran Signature Edition. These guitars are known for their warm sound and are widely associated with Ed Sheeran’s intimate performances.
5. Can I improvise and add my personal touch while playing Ed Sheeran songs?
Absolutely! While it’s great to learn and play his songs as they are, adding your personal touch and improvising is encouraged. Experiment with different strumming patterns, chord variations, and embellishments to bring your unique musicality to the songs.
6. How can playing Ed Sheeran songs on guitar improve my songwriting skills?
Studying Ed Sheeran’s song structures, chord progressions, and lyrical techniques can provide valuable insights into the art of songwriting. Pay attention to how his songs evoke emotions and tell stories, and apply those principles to your own compositions.
7. Are there any online tutorials available for learning Ed Sheeran songs on guitar?
Yes, there are numerous online tutorials, chord charts, and tabs available for learning Ed Sheeran songs on guitar. Websites like Ultimate Guitar and YouTube channels dedicated to teaching guitar cover a wide range of his compositions.
8. What should I do if I find certain Ed Sheeran songs too challenging to play?
If you come across songs that are too challenging, don’t get discouraged. Start by learning simpler songs and gradually build your skills. With consistent practice and dedication, you will gradually be able to tackle the more challenging pieces.
9. Can playing Ed Sheeran songs help me develop my fingerpicking technique?
Definitely! Many of Ed Sheeran’s songs incorporate fingerpicking patterns, making them excellent tools for improving your fingerpicking technique. Songs like “Thinking Out Loud” and “Photograph” are particularly beneficial in developing this skill.
10. Is it essential to learn music theory to play Ed Sheeran songs on guitar?
While a basic understanding of music theory can be helpful, it is not essential to enjoy playing Ed Sheeran songs on guitar. By learning chords, tabs, and strumming patterns, you can start playing his music even without extensive theoretical knowledge.
11. Can I play Ed Sheeran songs on a classical guitar?
Yes, you can play Ed Sheeran songs on a classical guitar. However, keep in mind that the sound and tone may differ from the original recordings, which are mostly associated with steel-string acoustic or electric guitars.
12. Which Ed Sheeran song is the easiest to learn on guitar?
“The A Team” is widely considered as one of the easiest Ed Sheeran songs to learn on the guitar. Its simple chord progression and slower tempo make it an ideal starting point for beginners.
13. Can I perform Ed Sheeran songs at open mic nights or gigs?
Absolutely! Ed Sheeran’s songs are popular choices for live performances, and they tend to resonate well with audiences. Including his hits in your repertoire can make your performances more captivating and enjoyable for listeners.
Conclusion
In conclusion, playing Ed Sheeran songs on the guitar offers a plethora of advantages, including emotional connection, acoustic guitar mastery, vocal accompaniment practice, versatility in genre, crowd-pleasing performances, songwriting inspiration, and sheer enjoyment. However, it is important to acknowledge the potential challenges, such as skill requirements, overplayed songs, personal interpretation difficulties, a narrowly focused repertoire, limited technical skill development, reduced originality, and changing trends. By balancing these factors, you can make the most out of playing Ed Sheeran songs on guitar and embark on a musical journey that captivates both yourself and your audience!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your guitar, choose your favorite Ed Sheeran song, and start strumming those strings! Let the magic of Ed Sheeran’s music come alive through your fingertips. Happy playing!
Closing Statement
As with any creative endeavor, playing Ed Sheeran songs on guitar should be approached with enthusiasm and passion. It is important to remember that while learning and playing cover songs can be immensely enjoyable, nurturing your own musicality and exploring your unique artistic voice is equally crucial. Use Ed Sheeran’s songs as a stepping stone to broaden your horizons and delve into the vast world of music. Embrace the challenges, enjoy the journey, and let your guitar become a vessel for self-expression. Remember, the joy of music knows no bounds!