Ed Sheeran’s songwriting prowess is undeniable, and his contribution to Justin Bieber’s global smash hit “Love Yourself” is a prime example. But the journey of this song, from Sheeran’s initial concept to Bieber’s chart-topping success, is a fascinating tale of how a track intended for one artist can become a defining moment for another. This article delves into the origins of “Love Yourself” and explores the collaborative process that led to its creation.
From Ed Sheeran’s Album to Justin Bieber’s Anthem
“Love Yourself,” a song that resonated with millions worldwide, wasn’t originally meant for Justin Bieber. Ed Sheeran wrote the song for his own album, “Divide,” but felt it didn’t quite fit the final tracklist. In an interview with Carson Daly on 97.1 AMP Radio, Sheeran revealed that the song likely wouldn’t have seen the light of day if Bieber hadn’t taken it and made it his own.
“That was a song I had written for Divide. It just wouldn’t have made it,” Sheeran explained. This almost-forgotten tune transformed into one of the biggest songs of 2016, topping the Billboard charts and earning a GRAMMY nomination for Song of the Year. This remarkable journey highlights the unpredictable nature of the music industry and the power of collaboration.
Justin Bieber’s Influence on “Love Yourself”
While Sheeran wrote the song, Bieber’s contribution shouldn’t be overlooked. Sheeran acknowledged Bieber’s input, stating, “[Justin] did have input on it, I wouldn’t say it was just all me.” Though the specifics of Bieber’s input remain undisclosed, it’s clear that his artistry shaped the song into the global phenomenon it became. Bieber’s unique vocal delivery and personal connection to the lyrics undoubtedly played a crucial role in the song’s success.
“Love Yourself”: A Testament to Songwriting Collaboration
The story of “Love Yourself” underscores the collaborative spirit often found in the music industry. It showcases how a song can evolve and find its true potential through the contributions of multiple artists. While Sheeran’s initial vision laid the foundation, Bieber’s interpretation and artistic input transformed “Love Yourself” into a timeless hit. The song’s success serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most impactful songs are born from unexpected partnerships and a willingness to let go of creative control.
Adele's 2016 Chart Success
Beyond “Love Yourself”: Ed Sheeran’s Unintentional Hits for Justin Bieber.
Interestingly, “Love Yourself” wasn’t Sheeran’s only contribution to Bieber’s repertoire. Sheeran also unknowingly played a role in the creation of another Bieber hit, “Cold Water,” a collaboration with Major Lazer and MØ.
Sheeran recounted a humorous anecdote about how he had completely forgotten writing “Cold Water” until Diplo contacted him about it, eventually leading to Bieber featuring on the track. The song’s subsequent success caught Sheeran by surprise, further highlighting his prolific songwriting abilities and the serendipitous nature of musical collaborations.
Ed Sheeran at the Grammys
“Cold Water” followed a similar trajectory to “Love Yourself,” becoming a chart-topping hit. This anecdote showcases Sheeran’s remarkable talent for crafting catchy melodies and lyrics that resonate with a wide audience, even when he’s not fully aware of it himself.
In conclusion, while Justin Bieber’s name is inextricably linked to “Love Yourself,” the song’s journey began with Ed Sheeran. It’s a story of collaboration, serendipity, and the transformative power of artistic interpretation. “Love Yourself” stands as a testament to the magic that can happen when talented individuals come together, even in the most unexpected ways.
