The Good, The Bad and the Bops: We Ranked the Collabs From Ed Sheeran's New Album

Which collabs from Ed Sheeran’s new album are worth the listen?  

Ed Sheeran's recent release, No 6. Collaborations Project, is an album entirely dedicated to—you guessed it—collaborations, on which our beloved ginger singer-songwriter teams up with the likes of Camilla Cabello, Eminem, Justin Bieber and Skrillex, making any music enthusiast’s wildest dreams come true.

In theory, it sounds like the ultimate Coachella lineup. But in reality, Ed’s fourth studio album has drawn mixed reviews from critics for highlighting both his versatility and limits. Although, that hasn’t stopped it from claiming the top spot on the ARIA Album Charts for two consecutive weeks now.

While it is arguably not Ed’s best album, there are still plenty of absolute bops to keep you satisfied. Not sure which tracks deserve your unconditional love? We have ranked all 15 tracks from worst to best for you.

15. "Nothing on You" (feat. Paulo Londra & Dave)

Let’s start by reiterating that none of the songs on the album are terrible. But look, there is just a lot going on here. Combining the forces of Argentinian rapper Paulo Londra and British rapper Dave might have seemed like a cool idea, but some ideas are best left unexplored.    

14. "Put It All On Me" (feat. Ella Mai)

There’s nothing fundamentally wrong with this song. With a cruisy beat, and sweet vocals provided by British singer Ella Mai, it’s an easy listen. That’s all it is though.

13. "1000 Nights" (feat. Meek Mill & A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie)

Ed’s verse in this track will satisfy fans of "Shape of You", and it certainly brings the boogie, but it still feels like something is missing here.

12. "Feels" (feat. Young Thug & J Hus)

"Feels" is very much on the same level as "Put It All On Me" and "1000 Nights". However, with a catchier melody and Young Thug’s infectious vocals, the song edges slightly ahead.

11. "BLOW" (with Chris Stapleton & Bruno Mars)

You’ll either love or hate this one. Rock lovers will head-bang along to the soaring vocals and rich beat, while others will feel like it’s just… unnecessary.

10. "Remember The Name" (feat. Eminem & 50 Cent)

With the combined talents of Ed Sheeran, Eminem and 50 Cent, there is simply no excuse for anything less than amazing. Yet somehow, "Remember The Name" manages to fall slightly flat. Yes, Eminem brings his usual gimmicky vibe, but we needed something more. 

9. "I Don’t Want Your Money" (feat. H.E.R)

Let’s all take a moment to appreciate H.E.R. This is a 22-year-old girl who keeps soaring to new heights. The American R&B artist makes a strong duet partner for Ed, and there’s a real confidence to this track. However, it still doesn't quite stack up to some of the others on the album. 

8. "I Don’t Care" (Ed Sheeran & Justin Bieber)

It reached the top spot on the ARIA Singles Chart, but the slightly overrated lead single replicates Bieber’s Purpose vibes big time. It’s that song that sounds like something we’ve heard before. Of course, it’s still a chill listen.

7. "Way To Break My Heart" (feat. Skrillex)

That brings us to a very underrated track. It’s so mellow. Be warned though, you will experience all the feels.

6. "Take Me Back To London" (feat. Stormzy)

All of the grime, and just a little bit of Ed. We're not complaining.

5. "Antisocial" (Ed Sheeran & Travis Scott)

Poor Ed is sounding very angry on this track, but it works for him. With skittering drums and in-your-face vocals, "Antisocial" can feel a tad repetitive. However, there is no denying that it is an obvious chart topper. Plus, it makes us feel better to know that Ed is antisocial as well.

4. "South of the Border" (feat. Camilla Cabello & Cardi B)

In one of the most exciting collaborations on the album, team Ed, Camilla and Cardi successfully fulfil our Latin-pop fantasies. While there is a ridiculously close similarity to "Shape of You", it can be overlooked for this powerhouse trio. 

3. "Cross Me" (Ft. Chance The Rapper & PnB Rock)

It’s the party tune of the year. While "Cross Me" is by no means the most emotionally profound song on the album, its heavy beats and catchy melody will ensure it cements a place in your playlist.

2. "Best Part Of Me" (feat. YEBBA)

"Best Part Of Me" is Ed doing what he does best: making people everywhere cry with stunning acoustic ballads. American Grammy-award-winning YEBBA was the perfect choice for this heart-warming track, that pours vulnerability. Ed asks, "Why the hell d’you love me?" This is why, Ed. This is why.

1. "Beautiful People" (feat. Khalid)

That brings us to our top pick. An absolute 10/10 summer bop, "Beautiful People" draws on Ed’s strengths, with a helping hand from Khalid. Tying in his lyrical genius and ability to craft nostalgic melodies, it draws attention to Ed’s own indifference towards Hollywood life. With a message that screams authenticity, Ed and Khalid remind us that it is important to just be ourselves.

Header Image: YouTube (Ed Sheeran)