Ed Sheeran is back with new music
Ed Sheeran is back with new music, and his latest single, “Shivers”, provides an intimate look into the fluttery feelings of new love. With heart-on-his-sleeve lyrics and Sheeran’s signature smooth vocals, “Shivers” is a sweet acoustic pop gem that captures a fledgling romance’s giddy excitement and nerves.
Background on “Shivers”
“Shivers” was written by Sheeran himself and produced by FRED. The singer-songwriter’s first new music since his third studio album, “No.6 Collaborations Project,” in 2019. In typical Ed Sheeran fashion, “Shivers” strips things back to his guitar and vocals, allowing his lyrical musings on love and relationships to shine through.
Lyrical Analysis
The lyrics of “Shivers” vividly depict the early sparks of attraction and intimacy between two people feeling each other out as a potential romance. In the verses, Sheeran sings of gazing into his love interest’s eyes and feeling “shivers” upon their physical contact. He describes being “high” on their chemistry and wondering where things might lead.
The chorus hinges on the line “I get a shiver when you touch my skin”, which captures that electrifying flutter one feels in those affectionate early stages. Sheeran evocatively conveys the intoxicating joy and anxiety that comes with the uncertainty of a new connection. Will it blossom into something more or fizzle out? Only time will tell.
Musical Elements
Musically, “Shivers” is a straightforward acoustic ballad highlighted by Sheeran’s stripped-down guitar playing and intimate vocals. His voice is smooth as silk, pouring emotion into each lyric with passion and tenderness. Simple yet effective instrumental flourishes like fingerpicked arpeggios add lush textures that enhance the swoony, romantic atmosphere.
Sheeran keeps the production clean and uncluttered so as not to distract from his beautifully crafted lyrics and melodies. The song builds subtly with each successive verse and chorus until releasing in a cathartic finale. It’s a masterclass in emotive songwriting simplicity from one of pop’s most skilled storytellers.
Music Video and Reception
The charmingly low-fi black-and-white music video for “Shivers” was directed by Dave Meyers. It sees Sheeran performing the song solo with his guitar in various picturesque rural locations like forests and beaches. Interspersed are romantic close-up shots highlighting gazed glances and affectionate moments between Sheeran and his love interest that visually bring the song’s themes to life.
Since its release on September 24th, “Shivers” has been warmly received by fans and critics alike for its return to Sheeran’s adept crafting of intimate acoustic pop tunes. It’s another winning addition to his catalogue of confessionally raw love songs. With its catchy melody and relatable exploration of new relationship butterflies, “Shivers” has all the makings of a hit single to carry Sheeran through the rest of 2021 and beyond.
After a two-year hiatus, “Shivers” sees Ed Sheeran easing into the public sphere with a tender musical reflection on love’s thrills and chills. Only time will tell what’s next for the shapeshifting singer, but fans can enjoy getting swept up in the swoony charms of this excellent new addition to his discography. Sheeran once again proves that few can spin lyrics into gold like him.
Comparisons to Previous Work
“Shivers” shares similarities to Ed Sheeran’s previous acoustic ballads, “Thinking Out Loud” and “Perfect,” with its focused storytelling and prioritization of emotional intimacy. However, “Shivers” finds Sheeran in a more youthful phase of love than the commitment and memories explored in songs about established relationships. This new chapter seems a natural progression as Sheeran and his art evolve.
Producer FRED
FRED, born Fred again, is a Swedish musician and producer who worked with major artists like Justin Bieber and Maroon 5. His collaboration with Sheeran on “Shivers” helps clarify the song’s organic instrumentation and moodiness without overshadowing Sheeran’s tender vocal performance and songwriting. FRED’s subtle yet impactful contributions perfectly complement Sheeran’s innate strengths.
Musicianship Growth
Sheeran has come a long way from his early days as a busking singer-songwriter. His guitarist, vocalist, and producer skills have grown immensely over his career, resulting in polished, passionate songs like “Shivers.” Though still retaining raw honesty, Sheeran’s evolving mastery of melody, lyricism, and layering instruments allows his talents to shine brighter with each new release.
Impact on Fans Old and New
Dedicated Ed Sheeran fans, heartened by “Shivers”, look forward to what’s ahead while the single’s appeal spreads his influence to fresh listeners. Its warmth and charm have all the tools to attract longtime supporters and new admirers, expanding Sheeran’s already enormous global audience. The song proves his artistry remains as powerful and universal as ever.
Ed Sheeran’s music is full of sincere emotions, and it is precisely because of this emotional resonance that more and more people have fallen in love with his music.
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Implications for Forthcoming Album
While details are still sparse, “Shivers” could provide an early sense of the direction of Sheeran’s impending fifth studio album. Fans speculate it may continue exploring romantic themes but with a youthful exuberance that branches out from his previous work. Regardless, Sheeran fans eagerly await what new creative depths he’ll plumb with his next full-length offering.
Impact on the Music Industry
As one of pop’s most successful acts, any new release by Ed Sheeran is an event with wide-ranging significance. “Shivers” joins his expansive catalogue, cementing his status as a masterful songcrafter and hinting at more successes. The song’s popularity will surely give the music industry a much-needed boost as the world continues emerging from the pandemic.
