11 Underrated Ed Sheeran Songs: 11 Must-Hear Songs

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here, your go-to DJ and curator at Level Tunes. Today, I’m stoked to share something a bit different with you all.

We’re diving into the world of Ed Sheeran, but not in the way you might expect. Sure, we’ve all heard his chart-topping hits, but what about those hidden gems tucked away in his albums? That’s right, I’m talking about the 11 most underrated Ed Sheeran songs that deserve more spotlight.

Why am I doing this?

Because as a music lover and a DJ, I believe in the power of discovering and appreciating the lesser-known tracks. These songs showcase Ed’s versatility and artistry in ways his popular hits don’t always reveal. So, let’s embark on this musical journey together and uncover some overlooked treasures in Ed Sheeran’s discography. Trust me, your playlist is about to get a whole lot richer.

Here are the underrated Ed Sheeran songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Ed Sheeran Songs

Underrated Ed Sheeran songs in a list format:

1. Tenerife Sea (Album: x, 2014, Atlantic Records)

“Tenerife Sea” is a serene love ballad from Ed Sheeran’s sophomore album “x” (pronounced “multiply”), released in 2014 under Atlantic Records. This track is a romantic ode, reminiscent of the tranquil waters of the Tenerife Sea. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and heartfelt lyrics, which capture a sense of deep admiration and love. I chose this song because it showcases Ed’s ability to paint vivid images with his words, making listeners feel as though they’re right beside the Tenerife Sea. It’s a perfect blend of acoustic melody and tender vocals that highlights his songwriting prowess.

2. Nina (Album: x, 2014, Atlantic Records)

“Nina,” another gem from the album “x,” is a soulful narrative that blends Ed’s signature storytelling with a rhythmic, catchy beat. The song is a poignant reflection on a past relationship, filled with personal anecdotes and emotional depth. I find “Nina” compelling because it combines Ed’s raw lyrical honesty with a sound that’s both upbeat and reflective. It’s the kind of track that resonates with anyone who has experienced love and loss, making it a must-listen for those exploring the depths of Sheeran’s discography.

3. Small Bump (Album: +, 2011, Atlantic Records)

Featured on his debut album “+,” released in 2011, “Small Bump” is a heart-wrenchingly beautiful song. It’s a narrative about an unborn child, showcasing Ed’s ability to tackle sensitive subjects with grace and empathy. The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics create a deeply emotional experience. I included “Small Bump” because it exemplifies Ed’s skill in crafting songs that are not only musically engaging but also emotionally resonant, revealing a more vulnerable side of his artistry.

4. Sunburn (Album: +, 2011, Atlantic Records)

“Sunburn” from the album “+” is a lesser-known track that deserves more recognition. It’s a hauntingly beautiful song with a melancholic melody and introspective lyrics. The song delves into the themes of longing and regret, showcasing Ed’s versatility as a songwriter. I chose “Sunburn” because it’s a raw and emotional piece that stands out for its simplicity and lyrical depth, proving that Ed’s talent extends beyond his mainstream hits.

5. Wake Me Up (Album: +, 2011, Atlantic Records)

Also from his debut album “+,” “Wake Me Up” is a tender and personal song. It’s a blend of whimsical lyrics and a soft, melodic tune that creates a sense of intimacy and warmth. This track reveals Ed’s ability to turn everyday moments into something magical through his music. I find “Wake Me Up” enchanting because it invites listeners into a more personal space, showcasing a side of Ed that’s relatable and endearing.

6. Afire Love (Album: x, 2014, Atlantic Records)

“Afire Love,” from the album “x,” is a powerful and emotive song about Ed’s late grandfather. The track combines a poignant narrative with a compelling melody, making it one of the most emotionally impactful songs in his repertoire. I included “Afire Love” because it not only highlights Ed’s talent as a storyteller but also his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.

7. Bloodstream (Album: x, 2014, Atlantic Records)

“Bloodstream” from “x” is a song that stands out for its intensity and raw energy. It’s a track that combines Ed’s emotive vocal delivery with a more robust, almost rock-like sound. The song’s theme of losing oneself in the moment is compelling, and its dynamic arrangement makes it a standout track. I chose “Bloodstream” because it showcases a different side of Ed’s musical spectrum, one that’s more intense and visceral.

8. Shirtsleeves (Album: x, 2014, Atlantic Records)

“Shirtsleeves,” another track from “x,” is a heartfelt song that speaks to the healing power of love in the face of sorrow. The song’s gentle melody and soothing vocals create a comforting atmosphere. I find “Shirtsleeves” to be a testament to Ed’s ability to craft songs that offer solace and understanding, making it a noteworthy addition to his discography.

9. Save Myself (Album: ÷, 2017, Atlantic Records)

From the album “÷” (pronounced “divide”), released in 2017, “Save Myself” is a poignant reflection on self-care and personal growth. The song’s introspective lyrics and powerful delivery make it a deeply moving track. I included “Save Myself” because it reveals Ed’s maturity as a songwriter and his willingness to explore personal and vulnerable themes.

10. Nancy Mulligan (Album: ÷, 2017, Atlantic Records)

“Nancy Mulligan” is a lively and upbeat track from “÷.” It’s a song that tells the love story of Ed’s grandparents, filled with charm and a folk-inspired melody. This track stands out for its storytelling and the joyous energy it brings. I chose “Nancy Mulligan” because it showcases Ed’s ability to weave narrative and melody into a song that’s both engaging and heartwarming.

11. New Man (Album: ÷, 2017, Atlantic Records)

Lastly, “New Man” from “÷” offers a humorous and cheeky perspective on modern relationships. The song’s catchy beat and witty lyrics provide a light-hearted break from the more serious tones in his other works. I included “New Man” because it highlights Ed’s versatility and his knack for creating songs that are fun, relatable, and refreshingly honest.

Fun Facts: Underrated Ed Sheeran Songs

1. Tenerife Sea

• Inspiration from a Grammy After-Party: Ed Sheeran wrote “Tenerife Sea” after attending a Grammy after-party. He was inspired by the blue color of a friend’s dress and the romantic atmosphere of the evening.
• Dedication to a Special Someone: Many fans speculate that the song is dedicated to his then-girlfriend, Athina Andrelos, especially with its deeply romantic lyrics.

2. Nina

• Personal Connection: “Nina” is named after Nina Nesbitt, a Scottish singer-songwriter who was Ed’s girlfriend at the time. The song reflects on their relationship and the challenges of dating while in the public eye.

3. Small Bump

• A Heartfelt Story: Contrary to what many think, “Small Bump” is not about Ed’s own experience but was written from the perspective of a close friend who experienced a miscarriage. The song’s emotional depth resonates with many listeners who have faced similar heartbreak.

4. Sunburn

• Early Work: “Sunburn” is one of Ed’s earlier works. It showcases his raw talent and potential, even before he achieved mainstream success. This song is a glimpse into the early stages of his career.

5. Wake Me Up

• Intimate Lyrics: The song features quirky and intimate lyrics, like references to Shrek and drinking tea, which add a personal and relatable touch. It’s said to be about Ed’s girlfriend at the time, encapsulating the comfort and simplicity of their relationship.

6. Afire Love

• Tribute to His Grandfather: “Afire Love” is a tribute to Ed’s late grandfather who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. The song was written in the last few weeks of his grandfather’s life, adding a layer of personal significance and emotion.

7. Bloodstream

• Collaboration with Rudimental: The album version of “Bloodstream” is a solo performance, but Ed also released a version in collaboration with the British band Rudimental. This version adds a more intense and electronic vibe to the song.

8. Shirtsleeves

• Metaphor of Tears and Shirtsleeves: The song uses the metaphor of wiping tears on shirtsleeves to portray support and comfort in times of sorrow, highlighting Ed’s ability to use everyday imagery to convey deep emotions.

9. Save Myself

• Personal Struggles and Realizations: “Save Myself” reflects Ed’s personal struggles and realizations about putting oneself first. The song resonates with many for its message of self-care and the importance of mental health.

10. Nancy Mulligan

• Based on a True Story: This song is based on the true love story of Ed’s grandparents, Nancy and William Sheeran. It’s a celebration of their enduring love despite facing objections due to different religious backgrounds.

11. New Man

• Light-hearted and Humorous: “New Man” showcases Ed’s ability to write light-hearted and humorous songs. The song is a playful take on modern relationships and the stereotypes that often come with new partners.

And there you have it, folks! Eleven of Ed Sheeran’s most underrated tracks that prove there’s more to this talented artist than just his mainstream hits. Dive into these songs and discover the deeper layers of Ed’s musical genius. Happy listening!

Thanks for reading.

TBone