Ed Sheeran - Shape of You - 2017
Introduction to "Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You" is a chart-topping single that marked a significant moment in the music industry in 2017. This song, from his third studio album, "÷" (divide), showcases Sheeran's versatility as a musician, blending pop music with tropical house, dancehall, and acoustic rhythms. Its catchy melody, distinctive beat, and relatable lyrics about love and attraction made it a global sensation, leading to widespread acclaim and numerous awards. In this module, we will explore the background, musical composition, lyrical themes, and the cultural impact of "Shape of You."
Background
- Ed Sheeran's Career: A brief overview of Ed Sheeran's journey in the music industry leading up to the release of "Shape of You."
- Album "÷ (Divide)": Insights into the album that features "Shape of You," highlighting its significance in Sheeran's discography.
- Music Production Techniques: Understanding the production process behind the creation of "Shape of You."
Musical Composition
- Music Theory Basics: An introduction to the musical elements that make "Shape of You" unique.
- Tropical House and Dancehall Influences: Exploring the genres that influence the song's rhythm and melody.
- Songwriting Process: Insights into Ed Sheeran's songwriting process for "Shape of You."
Lyrical Themes
- Love and Attraction: Analyzing the themes of love and attraction in the lyrics of "Shape of You."
- Storytelling in Music: The role of narrative and storytelling in Ed Sheeran's songwriting.
- Cultural Impact of "Shape of You": Discussing how the song reflects and influences contemporary cultural trends.
Cultural Impact
- Trends in Popular Music: "Shape of You" in the context of 2017 music trends.
- Music Awards and Recognition: The awards and recognitions received by "Shape of You."
- Global Influence of the Song: How "Shape of You" impacted international music charts and audiences.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What genre does "Shape of You" primarily belong to? (Pop) (!Rock) (!Jazz) (!Classical)
Which album is "Shape of You" a part of? (÷ (Divide)) (!x (Multiply)) (!+ (Plus)) (!No.6 Collaborations Project)
In what year was "Shape of You" released? (2017) (!2015) (!2018) (!2016)
Who are the producers of "Shape of You"? (Steve Mac and Ed Sheeran) (!Rick Rubin) (!Pharrell Williams) (!Max Martin)
What is the main theme of "Shape of You"? (Love and attraction) (!Travel and adventure) (!Heartbreak and sorrow) (!Friendship and loyalty)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
What is Ed Sheeran's full name? (Edward Christopher Sheeran) (!Edward Benjamin Sheeran) (!Edward Jonathan Sheeran) (!Edward Michael Sheeran)
In which country was Ed Sheeran born? (England) (!Ireland) (!United States) (!Australia)
Before achieving fame, Ed Sheeran used to perform in which of the following? (Small venues and pubs) (!Stadiums) (!TV talent shows) (!High school musicals)
What musical instrument is Ed Sheeran best known for playing? (Guitar) (!Piano) (!Drums) (!Violin)
Which of the following genres does Ed Sheeran commonly incorporate into his music? (Folk, hip-hop, and pop) (!Heavy metal) (!Classical) (!Electronic dance music)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
What is the first line of "Shape of You"? ("The club isn't the best place to find a lover") (!"I'm in love with the shape of you") (!"We push and pull like a magnet do") (!"And last night you were in my room")
Which of these lines follows directly after "I'm in love with the shape of you"? ("We push and pull like a magnet do") (!"And now my bedsheets smell like you") (!"Every day discovering something brand new") (!"One week in we let the story begin")
How does the protagonist in "Shape of You" prefer to meet their love interest? (Not in the club) (!At a coffee shop) (!Through friends) (!On a dating app)
Which object is mentioned in the song as being a reminder of the love interest? (Bedsheets) (!A photograph) (!A watch) (!A letter)
What does Ed Sheeran describe doing every day with his love interest in "Shape of You"? (Discovering something brand new) (!Dancing in the dark) (!Walking by the beach) (!Singing in the car)
Memory
| Ed Sheeran | English Singer-Songwriter |
| "Shape of You" | 2017 Release |
| ÷ (Divide) | Album Name |
| Love and Attraction | Main Theme |
| Steve Mac | Producer |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Creating a Cover Version: Record your own cover version of "Shape of You" using any musical instrument or software you have access to.
- Lyric Analysis: Write a short essay on how "Shape of You" uses language to express love and attraction.
Standard
- Music Genre Research: Research and present the influences of tropical house and dancehall on modern pop music, using "Shape of You" as a case study.
- Songwriting Exercise: Try writing your own song inspired by the themes and style of "Shape of You."
Difficult
- Music Production Workshop: Using music production software, attempt to recreate the beat or a section of "Shape of You" and share your creation online.
- Cultural Impact Study: Conduct a survey or research to explore the impact of "Shape of You" on listeners of different ages and cultures.
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Oral Exam
- Discuss the significance of Ed Sheeran's transition from folk and acoustic music to incorporating pop and dance elements in his songs like "Shape of You."
- How does "Shape of You" reflect the trends in music consumption and production in the late 2010s?
- Explore the role of collaboration in the music industry, using "Shape of You" and its production team as an example.
- Analyze the global appeal of "Shape of You" and discuss why certain songs become worldwide hits.
- Reflect on the importance of storytelling in music, using "Shape of You" as an example of narrative songwriting.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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