Songs You Didn't Know Ed Sheeran Wrote for Other Artists

Ed Sheeran is renowned not just for his own hits but also for crafting chart-topping tracks for other artists. In addition to his solo success, he's collaborated with a diverse array of musicians, penning songs that have become fan favorites. Let's dive into some of the tracks you might not realize Sheeran had a hand in creating.

Penning 'Love Yourself' for Justin Bieber

Among Justin Bieber's most memorable tunes is 'Love Yourself,' which carries Sheeran's songwriting touch. Sheeran revealed that the original draft of the song contained some explicit language, which was later refined for release. Producer Benny Blanco suggested the title shift to 'Love Yourself,' deeming the initial language unnecessary in pop music.

Crafting 'Eastside' with Benny Blanco, Halsey, and Khalid

Before venturing under his own name, Benny Blanco teamed up with Sheeran to write 'Eastside.' Featuring Halsey and Khalid, the track marked Blanco's debut as a lead artist. Although a lawsuit alleging similarities with another song was filed in 2021, it was eventually dismissed.

Creating for BTS: 'Make It Right' and 'Permission to Dance'

Sheeran wrote 'Make It Right' for BTS's sixth EP, delivering a track that perfectly matched their style. Two years later, he offered another song, 'Permission to Dance,' which BTS felt resonated well with their musical vision. The band's members have expressed their gratitude for Sheeran's contributions.

Surprisingly Forgettable: 'Cold Water'

'Cold Water,' featuring Justin Bieber and MØ, became a significant hit. However, Sheeran admitted to a peculiar lapse of memory, not recalling the song's existence despite its success.

'Fallin' All in You' with Shawn Mendes

In a unique collaboration, Sheeran co-wrote 'Fallin' All in You' for Shawn Mendes, initially challenging Mendes with its high-pitched vocal hooks. With encouragement, Mendes embraced the falsetto and released the song on his self-titled album.

Late-Night Studio Session: 'Tattoo' with Hilary Duff

On her 'Breathe In. Breathe Out.' album, Hilary Duff included 'Tattoo' as a track produced by Sheeran. Despite late-night recording sessions due to hectic schedules, Duff praised Sheeran for his incredible talent.

Collaborations with One Direction: From 'Moments' to '18'

Sheeran's friendship with Harry Styles facilitated his involvement in One Direction's debut album, leading to the inclusion of 'Moments.' His work on 'Little Things' and '18' showcased his ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with the band's sound.

Collaborating on '2002' with Anne-Marie

Anne-Marie's single '2002,' co-written with Sheeran, nostalgically reflects on the early 2000s. Their friendship dates back to around 2010, and they have partnered on various musical ventures since.

'Your Song' with Rita Ora: A Creative Bond

Rita Ora's collaboration on 'Your Song' with Sheeran highlights their longstanding friendship. Despite a busy schedule, Sheeran wrote this impactful track, becoming a key single from Ora's album 'Phoenix.'

Creating 'Strip That Down' for Liam Payne

Liam Payne worked with Sheeran to craft 'Strip That Down,' a track combining pop with trap influences. Payne was enthusiastically involved, resulting in a quickly finalized song.

Empowering Little Mix with 'Woman Like Me'

Co-written with Jess Glynne, Sheeran contributed to Little Mix's empowering anthem 'Woman Like Me,' enhancing their personal styling and lyrical composition.

Supporting Zara Larsson's Album 'So Good'

Sheeran's involvement in Zara Larsson's 'So Good' album showcased his mentorship in writing 'Don't Let Me Be Yours,' further solidifying his role in shaping global hits.

Influencing Keith Urban with 'Parallel Line'

Working with Keith Urban on 'Parallel Line,' Sheeran contributed a melody that resonated deeply with Urban, crafting a song that felt immediately familiar and authentic.

Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's 'The Rest of Our Life'

The sentimental track 'The Rest of Our Life' for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill captures the intimacy of their relationship, attributed to Sheeran's emotional songwriting expertise.

Teaming with Halsey for 'Still Learning'

Sheeran and Halsey collaborated on 'Still Learning,' part of Halsey's 'Manic' album, continuing their productive musical partnership.

A Red-Eye Adventure with Kelsea Ballerini

Kelsea Ballerini took a spontaneous flight to work on 'Love and Hate' with Sheeran, advancing a project that evolved through creative synergy and on-the-spot innovation.

Lewis Capaldi's 'Pointless' and the Sheeran Influence

Sheeran contributed indirectly to Lewis Capaldi's 'Pointless,' with collaborators passing on Sheeran's early verse to Capaldi, who then crafted the song into a finished piece.

Bonding with Bon Jovi on 'Living in Paradise'

Composing with icons like Bon Jovi, Sheeran worked on 'Living in Paradise,' adding to the legendary band's repertoire with his distinctive touch.

Creating 'Baby Don't Hurt Me' with David Guetta, Anne-Marie, and Coi Leray

'Baby Don't Hurt Me' is a testament to Sheeran's versatility, collaborating with multiple artists to create a Grammy-nominated track that showcases talents from diverse genres.