Ed Sheeran, Best Part of Me | Track Review

Ed Sheeran, assisted by singer YEBBA, delivers an authentic, well-rounded ballad with “Best Part of Me” ahead of ‘No. 6 Collaborations Project.’

A week prior to the release of his highly anticipated No. 6 Collaborations Project (July 12), Ed Sheeran released arguably his best advance single.  “Blow”, featuring fellow Grammy winners Chris Stapleton and Bruno Mars, served as a shakeup of sorts, giving Sheeran an uncharacteristic, but enjoyable rock number.  Also, released the same week, was single “Best Part of Me,” featuring continually rising singer, YEBBA. YEBBA appeared on three songs from the 2019 Mark Ronson album, Late Night Feelings, as well as appearing on the Sam Smith song, “No Peace,” from his 2017 album, The Thrill of It All.

There are lots of positives regarding “Best Part of Me.” Ed Sheeran does well with ballads, and “Best Part of Me” is no exception to the rule.  What stands out is the authenticity and the lyricism on this particular track.  Compared to the other advance singles, this record definitely gets higher marks in the songwriting department.  Sheeran is poetic and vulnerable, two things that truly connect with an audience:

“My eyes are crossed, but they’re still blue

I bite my nails and tell the truth

I go from thin to overweight day to day it fluctuates

My skin is inked, but faded, too.”

On the pre-chorus that follows, despite his flaws and many insecurities, Sheeran asserts her love for him while also asking why she’s into an imperfect guy like him.  The chorus happens to be shorter than the pre-chorus: “Baby, the best part of me is you / And lately, everything’s making sense, too / Oh, baby, I’m so in love with you.” YEBBA continues the narrative on the second verse and pre-chorus, brilliantly providing the female perspective.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “Best Part of Me” is well-rounded, thriving off its authenticity and retable nature. Is this the most exciting song that Ed Sheeran has ever released? No, and perhaps that’s the sole rub – it’s a wee bit boring after a while given its slow pace.  Nonetheless, Ed successfully checks off boxes on here.

Ed Sheeran • No. 6 Collaborations Project • Atlantic • Release: 7.12.19

Photo Credit: Atlantic