Calculating with Ed Sheeran

His discography reads like the multiplication tables of mathematics. But Ed Sheeran is interested in something else: catchy melodies. He is not the only one to benefit from this.

When Ed Sheeran (25) writes melodies and lyrics, his success is as certain as the church's Amen. Although we didn't hear much from the British redhead last year, he was busy working on new music. And not just for himself and his fans.

Sheeran took a one-year break and withdrew. Completely. He even temporarily switched off social media. He recently returned to the limelight and presented two new singles at the same time: "Shape Of You" and "Castle Of The Hill". Both set new records: Sheeran was the first artist ever to simultaneously conquer first and second place in the Swiss, British and German singles charts. A coup that he also achieved in other countries - and the success should soon continue seamlessly.

After his first two albums "+" (pronounced: plus) and "x" (pronounced: multiply), the third album "÷" (pronounced: divide) will now follow on March 3. In keeping with the new album, Sheeran actually shares his talent with many other artists. He has written songs for Taylor Swift, One Direction, The Weeknd, Justin Bieber and Robbie Williams.

He had forgotten that the global hit was his

Sheeran originally intended the song "Love Yourself" for his own album, but then passed it on to Justin Bieber. Because sometimes you have to be able to let go, Sheeran told Billboard magazine. "I probably would never have released the track myself. And now the song is considered the best of last year."

The following anecdote proves that the musician really can let go. "Diplo from Major Lazer kept contacting me, asking if I could give them the song 'Cold Water'," says Sheeran, "but I didn't know what he was talking about." Later, the DJ called again and said Justin Bieber was also on board.

Sheeran still had no idea, but gave his blessing. The collaboration between Major Lazer, Justin Bieber and Danish singer Mø became a hit. Sheeran: "I only realized it was my song when I heard it on the radio."

Two weeks after the premiere of "÷", Sheeran performs at the Hallenstadion Zurich. Little time for fans to memorize the new songs. Tickets go on sale next Thursday.

ED SHEERAN
Sun 19.3.17, Hallenstadion Zurich
TICKETS